Common Dental Restoration Options

Dental Bonding

Bonding uses a tooth-colored material to repair or reshape a tooth.

Often used for:

• Small chips
• Minor cracks
• Small gaps
• Uneven edges

Dental Crowns

A crown covers the visible part of a damaged or weakened tooth.

Often considered for:

• Broken teeth
• Severely worn teeth
• Weakened teeth
• Teeth with extensive damage

Inlays & Onlays

These custom restorations can repair certain damaged or decayed areas when a filling isn't enough but a full crown may not be necessary.

Dental Veneers

Veneers cover the front surface of a tooth and are mainly used for cosmetic concerns.

They may help with:

• Minor chips
• Uneven shape
• Discoloration
• Small gaps

Which Option Might Fit?

A dentist needs to evaluate the tooth before determining the appropriate treatment.

Signs You Should Get a Tooth Checked

Don't ignore:

• Pain when biting
• Cold or heat sensitivity
• Persistent tooth pain
• A visible crack
• A badly broken tooth
• Swelling around the tooth

A damaged tooth can become weaker over time, so early evaluation may provide more treatment options.

How Much Does Dental Restoration Cost?

Costs vary based on:

• Type of restoration
• Amount of damage
• Number of teeth
• Materials used
• Location
• Insurance coverage

Ask your dental office about treatment options and whether your insurance may help cover the cost.

Quick Guide

Small chip?

→ Ask about bonding.

Large or weakened tooth?

→ A crown may be an option.

Mainly cosmetic concern?

→ Bonding or veneers may be considered.

Missing tooth?

→ Ask about implants, bridges, or dentures.

Pain or swelling?

→ Consider a dental evaluation rather than treating it as a cosmetic problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a chipped tooth be repaired?

Yes. Small chips can often be repaired with bonding, while larger damage may require another type of restoration.

Can a cracked tooth be repaired?

Sometimes. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the crack.

Is bonding better than a crown?

They serve different purposes. Bonding is generally suited to smaller areas of damage, while crowns can restore more extensively damaged or weakened teeth.

How long do dental restorations last?

It varies by restoration type, oral hygiene, bite forces, and other factors. No restoration lasts forever.

What happens if I leave a damaged tooth untreated?

Some damaged teeth can become weaker, more sensitive, or more difficult to restore over time.

The Bottom Line

Dental restoration can range from simple bonding to crowns or tooth replacement.

The best option depends on the condition of your tooth and the amount of damage.