Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Lee, DDS · Last reviewed June 20, 2026. Educational information, not a substitute for an exam — talk to our Hebron office.
What is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on fixing teeth that are broken, decayed, or missing. While cosmetic work aims to improve how your smile looks, our restorative treatments prioritize how your mouth functions. We use durable materials to rebuild the structure of your natural teeth.
It restores function. Because we use high-strength ceramics and metals, these repairs can withstand the heavy pressure of chewing for many years.
Our team provides several different solutions depending on the level of damage you face. Some patients only need a single tooth repaired, while others require a full mouth restoration to rebuild their entire bite.
- Dental crowns to protect weakened teeth
- Dental bridges to fill gaps from missing teeth
- Inlays and onlays for moderate decay
- Full mouth reconstruction for complex cases
Signs You Might Need Dental Repair
You should monitor your mouth for changes. Small issues often turn into painful emergencies if left untreated for too long.
Many patients come to our Hebron office after noticing a sharp pain when biting down on hard foods. This sensation usually means a tooth has a crack or deep decay that requires more than a simple filling. You might also notice a visible gap where a tooth used to be, which can cause your remaining teeth to shift out of place over time.
Watch for these specific symptoms:
Sensitivity to very hot or cold drinks
A loose feeling in a specific tooth
Visible chips or dark spots on enamel
Pain when chewing or biting
Our Restorative Solutions and Materials
We tailor every treatment to your specific anatomy. Every mouth is different.
If a tooth has significant decay but isn't totally destroyed, we often suggest inlays or onlays. These are custom-fitted pieces that act like a reinforced filling because they cover more surface area than traditional resin. For teeth that are too weak to support themselves, dental crowns provide a protective cap that mimics the shape of your natural tooth.
We also specialize in same-day E4D crowns at our practice. While traditional labs can take two weeks to ship a porcelain crown, our CEREC technology allows us to design and mill your permanent restoration right here in Hebron. You walk out with a finished tooth in a single visit.
- Ceramic inlays for natural aesthetics
- Zirconia crowns for maximum strength
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal bridges for durability
What to Expect During Your Visit
Preparation is key. We want you to feel comfortable from the moment you sit in our chair.
First, we perform a thorough exam and take digital X-rays to see beneath the gum line. This step ensures we understand the exact shape of the tooth root before we begin any work. Once we have a plan, we apply local anesthetic so you won't feel discomfort during the procedure.
The process varies by treatment type. For a crown, we shape the tooth and take an impression. If you are receiving our same-day E4D crowns, we use a digital scanner instead of messy putty. This scan creates a 3D model that our in-office milling machine uses to carve your new tooth immediately.
After the restoration is placed, we check your bite. We want to ensure the new tooth feels natural so that you don't experience jaw strain or discomfort later.
Investment and Longevity
Cost depends on the complexity of the repair. A single filling is much cheaper than a full mouth restoration.
Most patients find that restorative work is a wise long-term investment because it prevents more expensive oral surgery later. For example, replacing a tooth with a bridge or implant now can prevent your jawbone from shrinking due to bone loss.
Typical costs for common restorative procedures in the Central Ohio area include:
Dental crowns: $800 – $1,800 per tooth
Dental bridges: $2,500 – $5,000 per bridge
Inlays and onlays: $500 – $1,200 per tooth
Full mouth restoration: $15,000 – $40,000+
📘 Want the full picture? Read our Restorative Dentistry Guide .
Frequently asked questions
How long do dental crowns last?
Most modern crowns last between 10 and 15 years. Proper brushing and regular checkups at our office will help extend that lifespan.
Is restorative dentistry painful?
We use local anesthesia to numb the area completely. Most patients report feeling only pressure rather than actual pain during the process.
What is the difference between an inlay and a crown?
An inlay fills a specific hole within the tooth structure. A crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth to provide total protection.
Can I get my dental work done in one day?
Yes, if you need an E4D crown, we can complete the entire process during a single appointment using our on-site milling technology.
Questions? Call (740) 527-0700 or request an appointment.