Composite tooth restoration is one of the quickest ways to repair a damaged tooth. It allows the tooth’s shape, colour and function to be improved, often in just one visit. This solution is less invasive than prosthetic crowns, which is why, in many cases, it allows more of the tooth’s natural tissue to be preserved.

Who is a good candidate for composite tooth restoration, and when is it advisable to have it done?

Composite tooth restoration is suitable when a tooth is chipped, worn down, discoloured or has minor damage. It is also used to close diastema, i.e. gaps between the teeth, and corrections to their shape.

If the damage is minor or moderate, Composite restorations often make it possible to avoid more extensive prosthetic treatment. This is particularly important, as any additional intervention involves the loss of some of the tooth’s natural tissues.

As dentist Dr Kamila Szuberska points out: „The greatest advantage of composite restorations is the ability to preserve healthy tissue. In many cases, we can improve the appearance and function of a tooth without having to grind it down significantly.”

IMPORTANT! Delaying treatment may lead to leading to further cracking of the weakened tooth, increased sensitivity and further damage. The larger the cavity, the fewer options there are for using simpler restoration methods.

What does the procedure involve and how long does it take?

Composite tooth restoration involves applying the composite material in layers, which is then shaped and cured using light. This makes it possible to recreate the natural shape of the tooth with great precision.

The procedure itself usually lasts between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the extent of the restoration. In many cases, the whole procedure can be carried out in a single visit.

The composite material is available in a range of shades, so your dentist can match it to the colour of your teeth. A well-executed restoration is usually difficult to distinguish from natural enamel.

„Modern composites make it possible to replicate not only the colour of a tooth, ”, but also its translucency and the way it reflects light,” adds Dr Kamila Szuberska.

Alternatives to composite restorations include porcelain veneers , prosthetic crowns (more on these here) and bonding (more here). The choice of treatment depends on the extent of the damage, aesthetic expectations and the amount of tooth structure remaining.

How much does a composite tooth restoration cost, and why you shouldn’t put it off

The cost of treatment depends primarily on the extent of the damage and the number of teeth being restored. Restoring a tooth with composite resin is usually cheaper than fitting a prosthetic crown or a porcelain veneer, which is why it is often an attractive option from a financial point of view. At our practice, the cost starts from £190.

When choosing a method, however, it is not worth basing your decision on is determined solely by the price. The most important thing is whether the tooth in question is suitable for this type of restoration and whether it will produce a long-lasting result.

As the dentist points out: „Patients often wait until a minor problem starts to bother them. The problem is that, over time, the cavity usually gets bigger, and the extent of the restoration required increases.”

That is why a tooth is restored using composite resin should be considered as early as possible, before the tooth structure deteriorates further. Early diagnosis allows the condition of the tissues to be assessed and a solution to be chosen that will be aesthetically pleasing, functional and reliable for years to come.