Restorative dentistry in London

Restorative dentistry repairs or replaces damaged, worn or missing teeth using treatments such as fillings, crowns, bridges, dentures and implants, with health, function and long-term maintenance considered before appearance.

The assessment records tooth-by-tooth condition, gum health, bite, tooth wear and any pain, supported by X-rays and photographs. A written, itemised plan sets out what needs treating first, what can wait and what the options are.

Tooth wear is treated by first identifying the cause — grinding, acid erosion or an unbalanced bite — then protecting and rebuilding the teeth with composite, onlays or crowns, and controlling the cause with habit advice or a night guard.

Cost follows how many teeth are involved, whether the bite needs rebuilding, and the materials used. Composite crown fees start from £525 and E.max ceramic crowns from £800. A written, itemised plan is provided after assessment and before any treatment is agreed.

Longevity depends on the material, the bite and how the underlying cause was managed. Direct composite is commonly quoted at around five to seven years before repair or replacement, and ceramic restorations generally longer. Treating the cause, such as wear or grinding, matters more than the material alone.

A filling or onlay is preferred while enough sound tooth remains to support it. A crown is considered when the remaining tooth is heavily broken down, root treated or at risk of fracture, because full coverage protects what is left.

Bonding is usually additive, repairable and reversible, but stains more readily. Veneers are more stain resistant and durable, but require enamel preparation and are irreversible. The right choice depends on tooth position, remaining enamel, bite and how much change is needed.