Common types of restorative dentistry

Fillings

A filling repairs a tooth that has a cavity. The decayed part is removed, and the space is filled with a material that restores the tooth's shape. Tooth-colored composite is a common choice because it blends with your natural teeth and bonds to them, which often means less of the tooth needs to be removed. With good care and regular checkups, fillings can last many years.

Crowns

A crown is a cap that covers the whole visible part of a tooth. Dentists use crowns when a tooth is cracked, heavily decayed, worn down, or has had a root canal. The tooth is shaped so the crown fits well, and the crown is then cemented in place. Tooth-colored materials look natural. Learn more about dental crowns.

Inlays and onlays

When a tooth has too much damage for a filling but not enough to need a full crown, an inlay or onlay may fit in between. These are made to match the shape of the tooth and bonded in place. They cover only the damaged part, so more of your natural tooth is kept.

Root canal treatment

If the nerve inside a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, a root canal removes the damaged tissue, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it. The goal is to relieve pain and keep your own tooth. Most root canal teeth are then protected with a crown. Our page on root canal treatment explains the steps.

Bridges

A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth to crowns placed on the teeth next to the gap. It can restore chewing and fill in your smile without surgery. The tradeoff is that the neighboring teeth must be shaped to hold the crowns.

Dental implants

An implant replaces the root of a missing tooth. A small post is placed in the jawbone, and a custom crown is attached on top. Implants feel and work much like natural teeth, and they do not rely on the teeth beside them. They also help keep the bone in that area active. Implants are often a very durable option when your health and bone allow them. See our dental implants page for details.

Dentures

Dentures replace many or all teeth in an arch. They can be removable, or they can be anchored to implants for extra stability and comfort. Implant-supported options generally feel more secure than ones that rest only on the gums.

Choosing what is right

The right treatment depends on how much of the tooth is left, your gums and bone, your bite, your goals and your budget. A dentist can only recommend the right fit after an exam and imaging. Our restorative dentistry page gives an overview of what we offer.