When is dental restoration needed?
Dental restorations are necessary when a tooth is damaged, decayed, or otherwise compromised in a way that it cannot be effectively restored to its natural state through simple preventive or conservative measures. Dental restorations are necessary to restore the function, appearance, and overall health of the tooth and can be required due to a variety of dental problems. The dental restoration procedure involves assessing the dental issue, preparing the affected tooth, fabricating or customizing the restoration (like crowns, fillings, or dentures), and finally, placing and bonding the restoration to restore the tooth’s functionality and appearance. Here is some information about the best restoration treatment you need:
Types of dental restoration and their costs
Dental restoration refers to the process of repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth to restore their functionality and appearance. Here are some types of dental restoration with teeth restoration cost:
- Fillings: They can be made of materials like composite resin, amalgam, or glass ionomer, which are used to repair cavities or small areas of tooth decay. The cost of composite (tooth-colored) fillings is $100 to $250 per filling, and amalgam (silver) fillings are $50 to $150 per filling.
- Crowns: Crowns are used to cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth. They can be made of various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. The cost of porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns is $800 to $1,500 per crown; all-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns are $1,000 to $2,500 per crown; and metal crowns are $800 to $2,500 per crown.
- Bridges: They are used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Dental bridges cost $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the number of artificial teeth and the materials used.
- Dentures: Dentures are used to replace multiple missing teeth or a full arch of teeth. They can be made of acrylic, metal, or a combination of materials. The cost of partial dentures is $700 to $2,500 or more, and that of full dentures (upper and lower arches) is $1,000 to $4,000 or more.
- Dental Implants: Implants help replace missing teeth with artificial tooth roots (implants) and crowns, bridges, or dentures. The cost of a dental implant can range from $3,000 to $6,000 or more.
- Veneers: thin shells of porcelain or composite resin bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance, typically used for cosmetic purposes. The cost of porcelain veneers is $1,000 to $2,500 per tooth.
- Inlays and Onlays: Custom-made restorations are used to repair larger areas of tooth damage and decay, providing a conservative alternative to crowns. Inlays and onlays cost can vary depending on the material and complexity, but typically range from $650 to $1,200 per tooth.
When do you need them?
Here are some common situations when dental restorations are needed:
- Cracked or Fractured Teeth: Teeth can become cracked or fractured due to various reasons, including trauma, teeth grinding, or biting on hard objects. Dental restorations like crowns, inlays, or onlays may be necessary to repair and strengthen the tooth.
- Broken or Chipped Teeth: If a tooth is broken or chipped due to an accident or injury, dental restorations like bonding, veneers, or crowns may be used to restore its appearance and function.
- Root Canal Therapy: When the pulp (nerve tissue) inside a tooth becomes infected or damaged, root canal therapy is performed to remove the infected tissue. Following a root canal, a crown is often placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its strength.
- Tooth Loss: When a tooth is lost due to decay, injury, or extraction, dental restorations such as dental bridges, implants, or dentures may be used to replace the missing tooth and restore chewing function and aesthetics.
- Cosmetic Enhancements: Dental restorations are also used for cosmetic purposes, such as improving the appearance of teeth that are discolored, misshapen, or have gaps. Treatments like veneers or dental bonding can enhance the aesthetics of your smile.
Tips for choosing a tooth restoration treatment
Dental restoration services encompass fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and more to address a range of oral health needs and restore teeth to their optimal function and appearance. So, choosing tooth restoration treatment is crucial for your oral health and well-being. Start by consulting a dentist who can assess your specific needs and oral health. Consider factors such as their pros and cons, cost, aesthetics, durability, and maintenance requirements. Consider your long-term goals and budget, and inquire about insurance coverage. It’s essential to trust your dentist’s expertise and seek a second opinion if needed to make an informed decision that aligns with your oral health goals.