Is Restorative Dentistry Right for You? What to Know Before Deciding

3. You’ve Had a Root Canal

Once a root canal is done, the tooth becomes hollow and more fragile. A crown is usually placed on top to seal and protect it. Without it, the tooth may crack or break over time.

4. You’re Dealing With Jaw Pain or Uneven Bite

Worn teeth, broken fillings, or missing teeth can cause bite imbalances that strain your jaw muscles and lead to pain or headaches. Restorative treatments can realign your bite, reduce discomfort, and make chewing feel natural again.

5. You Avoid Smiling or Eating Certain Foods

If you hide your smile or avoid crunchy or chewy foods because of dental issues, that’s a big sign restorative care might help. Being able to chew with confidence and smile freely affects your quality of life and it’s worth fixing.

What Are the Main Restorative Dentistry Options?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to fixing damaged or missing teeth. The best option for you will depend on your current oral condition, how much tooth structure remains, your lifestyle, and your long-term goals.  
Some people need a quick fix to get out of pain, while others want a complete and lasting restoration that feels as close to natural teeth as possible. Below are the most common restorative treatments, each serving a different purpose depending on what your mouth needs.

Fillings

Fillings are used when tooth decay is caught early enough that most of the tooth structure can still be saved. The dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills the space with a material designed to restore its shape and prevent further damage.  
In modern dentistry, tooth-colored fillings are often used because they blend in well and bond directly to the tooth. These fillings are durable, comfortable, and typically completed in one appointment. They’re most effective for small to medium-sized cavities and are the first line of defense when decay begins.

Crowns

When a tooth has been badly damaged or weakened either from decay, trauma, or repeated dental work, a crown is often the best way to restore strength and function. A crown covers the entire visible part of the tooth, holding it together and protecting what’s left underneath.  
It’s designed to look and feel like a natural tooth and is often used after a root canal or when a large filling is no longer strong enough. Crowns can be made from various materials depending on the location of the tooth and the patient’s preference. Once placed, a crown allows the patient to bite and chew comfortably without putting the remaining tooth at risk.

Bridges

Bridges are used to replace missing teeth by literally “bridging” the gap between two healthy teeth or implants. The teeth on either side of the gap are prepared to support crowns, and between them sits a replacement tooth that fills in the space.  
This restoration is fixed in place and does not come out, making it feel more natural than a removable partial denture. Bridges are especially helpful when a patient is missing one or two teeth in a row and wants a stable, functional solution without undergoing implant surgery. They restore not only your ability to chew and speak clearly but also the appearance of your smile.

Dentures

Dentures are a time-tested solution for people missing several or all of their teeth. Modern dentures are more comfortable and natural-looking than those in the past, and they are custom-fitted to match the patient’s mouth.  
Full dentures are used when all the teeth in one or both arches are missing, while partial dentures fill in specific gaps where some natural teeth remain. Some dentures now attach to dental implants for added stability, helping to prevent slipping or shifting during meals or conversation. They can dramatically improve quality of life by making it easier to eat, talk, and smile with confidence.

Implants

Dental implants are one of the most advanced and long-lasting ways to replace missing teeth. A small titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone where the root of a missing tooth once was. Over time, the bone fuses with the implant, creating a stable base for a crown, bridge, or denture. Implants look and feel like real teeth and can last for decades when cared for properly.  
They also help preserve bone in the jaw, which prevents the sunken appearance that often follows tooth loss. While the process takes longer and involves more steps, the results are often worth the investment.

Root Canal Therapy

When the inside of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, a root canal is needed to save the tooth from extraction. The dentist removes the diseased pulp tissue, cleans and disinfects the root canals, and seals the space to prevent further infection.  
Afterward, a crown is typically placed to restore the tooth’s function and strength. Root canals have a reputation for being painful, but with modern techniques and numbing methods, most patients say the procedure is no more uncomfortable than getting a filling. It is often the last step to keep a natural tooth in place and avoid more extensive restorative work down the line.