Restorative Dentistry FAQs
Restorative dentistry goes beyond just repairing teeth—it helps protect your long-term oral health. It brings back comfort, function, and confidence in your smile. At Haid Dental, patients often have questions about what these treatments involve, when they’re needed, and how they make a difference. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to give you a better idea of what to expect.
Why is restorative dentistry important?
Restorative dentistry helps you reclaim both the health and function of your teeth. Rather than just masking problems, it repairs existing damage, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile confidently while preventing further issues.
Who needs restorative dentistry?
If you have decayed, cracked, or broken teeth; missing teeth; or older restorations that are failing, restorative care may be necessary. Even patients who don’t yet feel symptoms benefit from early intervention to protect neighboring teeth or underlying structures.
What is the most common type of dental restoration?
The most frequent procedure is the tooth-colored (composite) filling, used to repair small cavities. It’s conservative, blends with your natural tooth, and can often be done in one visit.
Are composite dental materials safe?
Yes. Composite resins are biocompatible and FDA-approved. They bond directly to your tooth structure, helping to preserve more healthy enamel. At Haid Dental, we choose high-quality materials and use careful technique to minimize sensitivity and discoloration over time.
How bad can a tooth be and still be saved?
A tooth can often be saved even if it’s severely decayed, cracked, or has lost substantial structure—provided we can reach healthy tissue and remove infection. In many cases, a root canal treatment, combined with a crown, can restore the tooth. We evaluate each case and will recommend tooth extraction only when no viable restoration remains.
What is considered a major restorative service?
Major restorations include treatments like full crowns, dental bridges, dental implants, dentures, or full-arch restorations. These go beyond simple fillings and often require multiple visits, diagnostic work, and sometimes surgical planning.
What is the difference between a crown and a filling?
A filling replaces a limited portion of lost tooth structure (typically in one area). A dental crown caps or encases an entire remaining portion of the tooth, providing strength when the internal structure is compromised.
How long do restorations last?
It depends on material, location, bite forces, and oral hygiene. A well-done crown or composite restoration at Haid Dental can last many years. We monitor them through regular checkups and only intervene when needed.
Will a restored tooth look unnatural?
We design restorations to blend seamlessly with your other teeth. Our goal is that nobody notices—just that your smile looks natural and healthy.
What is the process for restorative treatment at Haid Dental?
First, we thoroughly examine your mouth, take digital imaging, and discuss options. We’ll design a treatment plan tailored to your goals. For same-day crowns, we may use CAD/CAM technology. Other services may require temporary work or lab fabrication.
Ready to bring your smile back to full health?
Schedule an appointment online or call Haid Dental today at 614-889-7661 and let our team walk you through a personalized plan.
