When is Restorative Dental Treatment Needed?

Most of us will need restorative dental work at some point. Teeth deal with a lot—chewing, grinding, aging, even injuries. When something wears down or breaks, the right treatment can rebuild strength and restore everyday function.

So what types of conditions usually call for restorative care?

Cavities That Go Beyond the Surface

Tooth decay doesn’t heal itself. When it reaches deeper layers of a tooth, the structure becomes compromised. Smaller cavities can be treated with a filling, but larger ones often need a crown or inlay to restore strength and stability.

If the decay reaches the pulp, a root canal followed by a crown may be needed to save the tooth.

Cracks, Chips, and Broken Teeth

A cracked or chipped tooth might not hurt right away—but that doesn’t mean it’s stable. Hairline fractures can spread, especially with chewing or clenching. Bonding might work for smaller chips, but bigger breaks often call for a crown or even a replacement tooth.

Bottom line: if a tooth’s structure is compromised, fixing it early prevents bigger headaches later.

Worn Teeth and Enamel Loss

Grinding, acid erosion, or age can wear teeth down over time. When enamel is lost, teeth may become flat, sensitive, or painful. Restorative options like bonding or crowns can rebuild shape and improve function.

Nightguards are often recommended to protect against ongoing wear from clenching or grinding.

Infections That Reach the Tooth’s Pulp

If a cavity sneaks past the outer layers and hits the nerve, you’ll probably feel it. Sensitivity, throbbing, or swelling are red flags. A root canal clears out infection, then a crown helps keep that tooth functional and sealed up tight. In some instances, an extraction is the best step forward.

Missing Teeth and Shifting Alignment

A missing tooth can do more than leave a gap. It may affect chewing, speech, and lead to shifting in surrounding teeth. Restorative options like dental implants, bridges, or dentures help restore balance, improve appearance, and support long-term oral health.

Explore Restorative Options at Lynn Lane Family Dentistry in Broken Arrow, OK

At Lynn Lane Family Dentistry in Broken Arrow, OK, Dr. Valerie Holleman helps patients get ahead of dental damage with personalized restorative solutions. Whether it’s rebuilding a worn-down tooth or replacing one that’s missing, there’s a plan that fits your needs.

Call today to schedule your visit—and let’s take care of the tooth that’s been bothering you.

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Categorised in: Restorative Dentistry