5 Common Types of Dental Restorations

A healthy, visually appealing smile is something everyone deserves, and dental restoration plays a vital role in enhancing your appearance, oral health, and function. If you have damaged or missing teeth, dental restoration might be a valuable solution to improve your smile. From fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, veneers, and dentures, there is a solution to fit your dental needs and get your smile back to looking and feeling great!

With decades of experience and advanced cosmetic and restorative dentistry training, we are dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. At Dental Specialties Northwest, we provide state-of-the-art treatments, from simple fillings to complex dental implants, tailored to your needs. Located in the heart of Seattle, we also offer spa-like amenities and concierge services to make your dental care experience truly exceptional. Whether you’re local or visiting from afar, we are committed to delivering unparalleled care for your smile.

5 Types of Common Dental Restorations

There are many types of dental restorations your dentist may recommend, but some of the most common include:

Fillings

Dentists typically use fillings to repair cavities or small cracks in the teeth. Cleveland Clinic reports that more than 80% of people have had at least one cavity by the time they reach their mid-30s, making dental fillings a widespread restorative procedure. There are two main types of dental fillings, which include:

Direct Fillings

During a direct filling, your dentist will mold the filling substance into the cavity and allow it to harden to restore the tooth’s structure. This type of filling happens in one visit. Some common materials used in direct fillings include silver amalgam, composite resin, and glass ionomer. While composite and glass ionomer fillings are more visually appealing and designed to match the tooth’s color, silver amalgam is considered a more durable substance and can last upwards of 20 years. 

Indirect Fillings

Sometimes called inlays or overlays, indirect fillings typically require two visits, as the filling is made in a laboratory and then fitted to the cavity or crack in the tooth. In many cases, indirect fillings are used when there is too much damage to support a direct filling but there is not enough damage for a full dental crown. Some common materials for indirect fillings are gold and porcelain, with porcelain being closer to the natural tooth color. 

Crowns

A dental crown might be the best option for restoring function and appearance when you have a larger cavity or broken tooth. Compared to a dental filling covering the cavity or crack, a crown fits over the entire tooth. This crown is bonded into place and can last five to 15 years with proper dental care.

Depending on your preferences and the severity of damage, there are three common types of dental crowns: metal, resin, and porcelain. Because metal crowns are metallic, they are typically used on hidden back molars but have a longer lifespan than other materials. Porcelain and resin crowns are used for visible front teeth but are less durable and more prone to wear. 

Bridges

Bridges might be a good option if you need to replace a row of teeth. A bridge is made up of a row of artificial teeth that are anchored to the teeth on either side of it. There are three main forms of bridges that your dentist may use:

• Traditional: This is the most common type of bridge. In a traditional bridge, a row of artificial teeth is anchored to two crowns on either side of them.
• Cantilever: Similar to a traditional bridge, a cantilever bridge consists of a row of artificial teeth but is only anchored to one side with a crown. This type of bridge is used when there are only natural teeth on one side of the bridge and is not as strong as a traditional bridge. 
• Implant-supported: In an implant-supported bridge, the anchor teeth on either side are dental implants rather than natural teeth. This requires a longer healing process, as the dental implants must heal before the bridge can be added.

An experienced dentist can perform an examination and health history to help you determine the best bridge option for your dental needs. 

Implants

When you lose a tooth from decay or injury, a dental implant might be the right option for you. While dental implants require longer healing time and are typically more expensive than some other restoration procedures, they offer a more permanent solution to creating a natural-looking smile.

Each dental implant begins with a post attached to the jawbone that acts as the root of the tooth. An abutment is connected to the post to extend slightly beyond the gum line where the crown or artificial tooth is attached. Healing can take anywhere from three to nine months as the post and jawbone fuse. 

Veneers

Dental veneers are designed to cover the front of the teeth to create a uniform and aesthetic smile. They are used to conceal a wide array of dental imperfections such as cracks, discoloration, gaps, misshapen teeth, or teeth that are too small. Veneers are generally only a viable option for those with good oral health lacking in cavities and gum disease. 

While a dental crown covers the entire tooth and adds support and stability, a veneer only covers the front of the tooth and is more cosmetic. It is important to note that many types of veneers are not reversible and can sometimes damage the enamel of the teeth they cover. Speaking with a local dentist about your dental goals can help you weigh your options and decide if crowns or veneers are the right choice for you. 

How Can Dental Specialties Northwest Help Meet Your Dental Restoration Needs? 

If you’re considering dental restorations, our team at Dental Specialties Northwest is here to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your smile. Whether you need simple fillings, advanced dental implants, or anything in between, we offer personalized care to meet your needs. With years of experience and specialized training, we’re equipped to handle even the most complex cases, ensuring you receive top-quality care in a comfortable and luxurious environment.

Located in Seattle, we provide spa-caliber amenities and concierge services to enhance your dental care experience. Whether you’re a local patient or visiting us from around the world, we’re committed to delivering exceptional results and helping you regain confidence in your smile. Call us today at (253) 465-2821 or reach out through our contact form.