Tooth-Colored Fillings and Restorations

There are two types of dental restorations: direct and indirect.

Direct restorations consist of white composite-resin fillings that are placed immediately into a prepared tooth. This procedure only takes one appointment to complete.

Indirect restorations generally require two or more visits. They include veneers, crowns and bridges fabricated in porcelain or gold. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth and makes an impression of the area to be restored. A temporary restoration is placed while the impression is sent to the lab. At the next appointment, usually two weeks, the dentist cements the permanent restoration onto the tooth and adjusts it as needed.