What Are My Options for Tooth Repair?

When a tooth becomes damaged, our Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist—Kevin Sands, DDS—can complete a repair using a variety of techniques, which restore the structure, strength, and appearance of the tooth. Depending on the type and severity of the damage, Dr. Sands will choose the most conservative and aesthetically pleasing method for achieving an optimal result. In the context of dentistry, conservative treatments are those that seek to retain as much of the healthy tooth as possible while still providing exceptional restoration.

When repairing damaged teeth, Dr. Sands has many options to select from:

• Porcelain veneers are thin shells of high-quality ceramic material that are bonded to the visible font surfaces of teeth to conceal any damage and improve their appearance. Additionally, porcelain veneers can help protect the teeth from further damage and provide added strength. Porcelain veneers are most often recommended for anterior (front) teeth affected by minor or moderate chips or cracks.
• Porcelain crowns are essentially ceramic caps that fit over the entire body of a damaged tooth to restore optimal strength, structure, and aesthetics. They also protect the remaining natural tooth structure from decay and further damage. Porcelain crowns are typically used to restore teeth affected by extensive decay or broken/fractured teeth anywhere in the mouth.
• Cosmetic bonding is a versatile tooth repair technique that uses tooth-colored composite resin material to fix or conceal minor dental damage, such as cracks, chips, and/or cavities. While cosmetic bonding is a strong and effective option for tooth repair, it is not considered to be as long-lasting as porcelain restorations, like veneers and crowns.
• Dental implants may be recommended as tooth replacements when teeth have become damaged or decayed beyond repair. The dental implant procedure involves the placement of a titanium post in the jawbone, which supports a strong, natural-looking replacement tooth. Dental implant options can also include implant-supported bridges and implant dentures for patients who need to replace either multiple teeth or a full arch of teeth.

Are you curious about which tooth repair option may be best for you? If so, we welcome you to contact our practice to schedule an appointment with Dr. Sands. During your consultation, Dr. Sands will perform a comprehensive assessment of your oral health and the condition of any damaged or badly decayed teeth you are hoping to repair. Based on his findings, he will suggest a customized treatment plan suited to your dental needs, cosmetic goals, and budget. In all cases, Dr. Sands strives to create beautiful, healthy, functional repairs that restore the strength and aesthetics of your natural smile.