Dental Restorations

Even with better home care and widespread fluoride use, teeth remain vulnerable to decay, injury, and wear. When a tooth’s structure or health is compromised, restorative dentistry steps in to return strength, comfort, and appearance to your smile. Advances in materials and techniques mean restorations can now match the look and function of natural teeth more closely than ever.

At the office of Keith A. Kye, DDS, FAGD, we prioritize conservative, evidence-based care that preserves as much natural tooth structure as possible. Our goal is to help patients understand their options so they can make informed choices about treatment that restore oral health while supporting long-term well-being.

Recognizing When a Tooth Needs Restorative Care

Tooth damage shows up in many ways: persistent sensitivity, a crack that catches on your tongue, a dark spot that expands, or pain when biting. Some problems are obvious; others are discovered during routine exams with digital X-rays or intraoral cameras. Early diagnosis lets us intervene before an issue progresses to infection or tooth loss.

Decay and fractures are the most common triggers for restorative work, but wear from grinding, failing previous restorations, and changes in bite alignment can also compromise a tooth. During your appointment, we evaluate the tooth’s structure, the health of the surrounding gum and bone, and the long-term prognosis for preservation.

Deciding on treatment starts with a clear clinical picture. We’ll explain the findings, show you images when helpful, and outline options that balance durability, function, and esthetics. That process helps patients choose a plan that meets both practical needs and personal goals.

Restoration Choices Explained: From Fillings to Full Coverage

Small areas of decay or minor chips are often treated with tooth-colored composite fillings that bond directly to enamel and dentin. For larger defects, inlays and onlays made from ceramic or composite provide a stronger, longer-lasting repair while preserving more tooth structure than a full crown.

When a tooth requires more substantial protection, a ceramic or porcelain-fused-to-metal crown can restore shape and strength while matching neighboring teeth. Bridges can replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring restorations to adjacent teeth, and removable prosthetics remain an option for broader tooth replacement needs.

For patients seeking maximum longevity and a natural feel, implant-supported restorations are an excellent solution for replacing missing teeth; these are addressed in our implant dentistry services and combined with restorative techniques to rebuild both function and confidence in chewing and speech.

Conservative Techniques That Prioritize Your Natural Tooth

Modern restorative dentistry emphasizes preservation. Adhesive bonding methods allow us to rebuild teeth with minimal removal of healthy tissue, and digital planning helps us design restorations that fit precisely and protect remaining tooth structure. When feasible, we favor inlays, onlays, and bonded restorations over more invasive options.

Maintaining the vitality of the tooth’s nerve is a key consideration. If a deep cavity or infection reaches the pulp, root canal therapy can eliminate infection and retain the tooth as a functional part of the mouth. After endodontic treatment, a well-designed restoration restores strength and prevents reinfection.

Materials science has produced ceramics and composites that are strong, biocompatible, and highly esthetic. We select materials based on the location in the mouth, functional demands, and the patient’s esthetic preferences, always aiming for a long-term result that looks and feels natural.

Restoring Bite and Function: More Than Just Appearance

Successful restorations must do more than look good—they need to restore comfortable chewing, clear speech, and a stable bite. A poorly aligned or ill-fitting restoration can create wear, jaw discomfort, or additional tooth damage. We evaluate occlusion (how your teeth meet) as part of the planning process to ensure restorations integrate smoothly with your existing bite.

For patients with bruxism, uneven wear, or changed vertical dimension, restorative plans may include occlusal adjustment, protective appliances, or staged rehabilitation to distribute forces evenly and protect the new work. This attention to function helps restorations last and reduces the risk of future complications.

Long-term success also depends on maintenance. Regular check-ups, cleanings, and attention to oral hygiene help detect early changes, allowing timely repair or replacement of restorations before small problems escalate.

What to Expect During Treatment and Recovery

Treatment typically begins with a comprehensive exam and digital records so we can present clear options. Once a plan is agreed upon, we’ll schedule the necessary appointments—some treatments are completed in a single visit, while others require two or more visits when custom-fabricated restorations are used.

Local anesthetic keeps most restorative procedures comfortable. For extensive treatments, we discuss techniques to manage anxiety and comfort. After the procedure, patients may experience mild sensitivity or soreness that resolves within a few days; we provide specific care instructions tailored to the type of restoration placed.

Follow-up is an important part of the process. We check the fit, function, and esthetics of new restorations at subsequent visits and advise on simple habits—such as avoiding very hard foods and using a night guard if you grind—to protect your investment in oral health.

Whether you need a small filling or a multi-tooth restoration, our approach balances modern technology with conservative principles to deliver durable, natural-looking results. If you have questions about dental restorations or want to learn which options are right for you, please contact us for more information.