The 7 Different Types of Tooth Restoration

If your teeth are crooked, worn, discolored, damaged, or unhealthy, your dentist might suggest tooth or dental restoration. There are several restoration options you can consider.

Tooth restoration can recover the natural function of your teeth and help prevent further decay. These treatments can also improve the appearance of your teeth and may be sought for cosmetic reasons.

In many cases, a dental restoration procedure improves both the function and appearance of a tooth at the same time.

This image presents a before-and-after comparison of a dental restoration, specifically focusing on the front teeth. The top image showcases the “before” condition of a patient’s smile. The teeth appear somewhat uneven in length and shape, with noticeable wear and chipping, particularly on the central incisors. There’s a visible gap between the upper front teeth, indicating diastema. The teeth also exhibit discoloration, appearing yellowish and lacking brightness. The gum line is visible, appearing healthy but slightly uneven. The overall impression is of a smile that lacks uniformity and aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the bottom image displays the “after” result of the dental work. The teeth are now remarkably uniform in size, shape, and color. The gaps have been closed, creating a more cohesive and symmetrical smile. The teeth are significantly brighter and whiter, exhibiting a healthy, natural sheen. The edges of the teeth are smooth and well-defined, eliminating the chipped appearance. The gum line remains healthy and appears unchanged. The transformation is dramatic, demonstrating a significant improvement in the patient’s smile aesthetics. The dental work appears to be veneers or crowns, judging by the complete reshaping and color change. The background is a solid black, emphasizing the teeth and gums.” style=”display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-radius: 5px; max-width: 80%; height: auto;” loading=”lazy”/>

Types of tooth restoration

Various treatments can restore the look and function of damaged teeth. The specific restoration you need depends on the kind and extent of dental damage present.

Common dental restoration procedures include:

Dental fillings

Fillings are used to fill a cavity caused by tooth decay. This is the most frequently performed type of tooth restoration.

Fillings are completed in a dental office and generally do not require a specialist.

Your dentist will remove the decayed material and fill the cavity. Different materials may be used for fillings, such as silver amalgam or composite resin.

If the tooth is near the front of your mouth and visible when you talk or smile, your dentist may suggest a tooth-colored filling. Options include:

• Composite resins (white filling): A newer filling material preferred over amalgam for several reasons. They match tooth color and do not expand and contract like metal fillings, which can reduce tooth damage. Yet they are similarly strong and durable.
• Glass ionomer: This material behaves more like a sealant than composite resin and is opaque.
• Resin-modified glass ionomer: Similar to glass ionomer but with a more enamel-like shade to match natural teeth and improved longevity.

Discuss with your dental professional which filling material is best for your situation.

Crowns

Dental crowns are caps that cover an entire tooth. Crowns are used to protect:

• teeth with cavities too large for fillings
• weak or cracked teeth
• worn teeth
• a tooth that’s vulnerable after a root canal

They also help anchor bridges that replace missing teeth.

Crowns are placed by a dentist or a prosthodontist. Your dentist may be able to fabricate a crown in-office.

Often, a dental professional will take an impression of the tooth and send it to a lab where the crown is made. A temporary crown is commonly placed until the permanent crown is ready.

Implants

Implants are artificial roots that support replacement teeth like crowns or bridges. Two main types are:

• Endosteal: The artificial root is placed into the jawbone.
• Subperiosteal: The implant is positioned on or above the jawbone; this is used when the jawbone lacks sufficient healthy structure for an endosteal implant.

Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth and can improve your bite and speech.

Implant treatment involves several procedures and can take months to complete, but implants may last for decades.

Oral surgeons and periodontists typically perform implant procedures.

The image presents a cheerful and informative depiction of dental health, specifically focusing on dental implants. The background is a smooth, light teal surface, providing a clean and clinical aesthetic. Positioned above a row of stylized teeth are two common dental tools: a dental mirror and a dental probe, both rendered in shiny silver metal. These tools are angled towards each other, subtly drawing the eye towards the central focus of the image – a line-up of five “teeth.” Four of these teeth are traditional white, block-shaped representations with simple, smiling faces drawn on them in black. However, the central “tooth” is distinctly different; it’s a silver, screw-shaped dental implant, also sporting a smiling face. This implant is slightly taller than the other teeth, emphasizing its role as a replacement. The arrangement suggests a complete set of teeth with one having been replaced by an implant. The overall composition is bright and inviting, using the smiling faces to convey a positive message about dental care and the successful integration of implants into a healthy smile. The image is likely intended for educational or promotional purposes, highlighting the benefits and normalcy of dental implant procedures. The simplicity of the design and the use of friendly imagery make it accessible and reassuring.” style=”display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-radius: 5px; max-width: 80%; height: auto;” loading=”lazy”/>

Bridges (fixed partial denture)

Bridges are false teeth (pontics) that replace missing teeth. They are anchored by crowns on the adjacent teeth (abutments), restoring both function and appearance.

Bridges are commonly made from porcelain that matches your natural tooth color and sometimes porcelain fused to a stronger metal underneath.

Placing a bridge may require your dentist to cover the healthy teeth beside the gap with crowns (retainers) to secure it. Occasionally, dental implants may support the new teeth.

Different types of bridges include:

• traditional
• Maryland
• cantilever
• implant-supported

The number and location of missing teeth determine which bridge type is appropriate. The condition of the abutment teeth (the teeth on either side) can also influence the choice.

Bridge placement often requires several dental visits.

A general dentist or prosthodontist (a specialist in restoring or replacing teeth) can perform bridge procedures.

Dentures

Dentures are removable false teeth used to replace missing teeth and mimic the appearance of teeth and surrounding gums.

If you’ve lost all your teeth from injury, decay, or gum disease, you might receive a full set of dentures. If you still have some natural teeth, a partial denture can replace the missing ones.

Sometimes, damaged or decayed teeth are extracted before fitting dentures.

Veneers

Veneers are tooth-colored shells that cover the front surface of a tooth or several teeth. They are considered a cosmetic treatment to improve the appearance of damaged teeth.

Veneers can make small or short teeth appear more even and can create uniformity for discolored, cracked, or chipped teeth.

They may be made from porcelain or composite resin. Two veneer approaches include:

• Traditional. This requires more preparation, including removing some of the natural tooth’s enamel and structure.
• No prep. This involves minimal preparation and less enamel removal and typically does not require anesthesia.

With proper care, veneers can last between 5 and 15 years.

Bonding

Tooth bonding is used to enhance the appearance of discolored, cracked, or chipped teeth.

Your dentist applies a tooth-colored composite resin, shapes and sculpts it, then hardens it with a UV light.

Bonding is not as strong as a veneer or crown and can chip more easily, potentially requiring further restoration.

Cost

The cost of tooth restoration varies by procedure type, your location, and any dental insurance coverage you have.

Dental insurance plans differ in coverage. Check what your plan will pay for your intended procedure. Some plans cover certain restorations but not others, which may influence your choice.

Some insurers have annual or lifetime maximums and may impose waiting periods before coverage begins.

Here are some cost estimates for common procedures:

Dental fillings

Fillings are frequently covered at least in part by dental plans. If paying out of pocket, cost depends in part on the material used.

The size and location of the cavity affect price. Generally, expect to pay about $150 to $400 for a filling. X-rays and extras like additional anesthesia may increase this cost.

Dental crowns

Crowns may be partially covered by dental insurance if deemed medically necessary. Cosmetic crowns may not be covered.

Crowns can be costly if you pay the full price; a single crown typically ranges from $800 to $2,000 depending on materials.

Implants

Many dental plans do not fully cover implants, though some may provide partial coverage for certain parts of the process.

Implants can cost $3,000 to $6,000 per tooth when paid out of pocket.

Bridges

Insurance often covers around 50 percent of bridge costs. The total depends on how many teeth are being replaced and the bridge type.

Expect to pay roughly $2,000 to $5,000 per bridge.

Dentures

Dental plans commonly cover about 50 percent of denture costs. Without insurance, a partial denture may cost $900 to $1,500, while a full denture may run $1,500 to $2,000 or more.

Veneers

Veneers are usually considered cosmetic and are seldom covered by insurance. Prices typically fall between $900 and $2,500 per tooth.

Bonding

Bonding is sometimes regarded as cosmetic and may not be covered. Check your plan before proceeding.

Without insurance, bonding usually costs about $300 to $600 per tooth.

Can tooth enamel be restored?

Lost tooth enamel cannot be restored. Dental restoration treats weakened or damaged teeth but cannot replace enamel that has been lost.

Remineralization

Weakened enamel can be strengthened by increasing its mineral content through remineralization.

Home strategies to help strengthen enamel include:

• Brush with a remineralizing toothpaste, such as fluoride toothpaste.
• Chew sugar-free gum to boost saliva production, helping neutralize acids that erode teeth.
• Drink plenty of water, especially tap water that contains fluoride.
• Avoid sugary foods and beverages that contribute to enamel erosion.

Sealants

For children in particular, a dentist may suggest sealants be applied to the back teeth.

Sealants help prevent enamel loss but do not restore enamel that’s already gone.

Sealants are bonded to each tooth and cured with ultraviolet light, and they typically remain for several years.

Sealants contain a trace amount of bisphenol A (BPA). The tiny exposure is generally outweighed by the benefits, and most BPA is gone within hours after placement. 2016 research indicates they are generally considered safe.

How can you restore teeth color?

If your teeth are discolored, you may try natural at-home methods or over-the-counter products like whitening strips or gels.

Tray-based bleaching can produce more noticeable whitening. These trays, which fit over your teeth, use a peroxide-based gel and may be custom-made by a dentist or bought over the counter.

In-office whitening usually yields the most dramatic outcome. Your dentist applies a stronger bleaching agent alongside light or heat to whiten teeth.

When to talk with a professional

Regular dental visits help you stay ahead of dental issues.

Teeth that hurt or bleed should be evaluated promptly. Signs of infection, such as drainage or swelling, need immediate attention.

If you have cracked, discolored, chipped, or missing teeth, consult your dentist about restoration options that can improve appearance and prevent further damage.

The bottom line

Tooth restoration can be performed for cosmetic or medical reasons. Multiple types of restorations are available depending on your dental needs.

Restoration can create a more even smile and restore natural tooth function, making chewing and speaking easier.

If you have dental insurance, it may cover part of the cost for many tooth restoration procedures.