Restorative dentistry,
rebuilt right.
From a simple filling to a full crown, we restore damaged and missing teeth to full function — while keeping future problems in mind. Dr. de la Paz offers conservative, lasting solutions for every situation.
Overview
What is restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry replaces missing teeth or repairs damaged ones, restoring normal function and appearance.
The most common example is filling a cavity, but it also includes crowns, bridges, implants, root canals, and more.At Bright Smile Dental, our goal is a healthy smile that prevents future oral health issues, not just a quick fix.
Why not wait
Why not wait?
01
Missing teeth cause shifting
Remaining teeth drift into gaps, affecting your bite, hygiene, and appearance over time.
02
Cavities only get worse
Untreated decay deepens — turning a simple filling into a root canal or extraction.
03
Higher cost later
Early treatment is always simpler and cheaper. A filling costs far less than a crown.
The process
How it works
Examination & diagnosis
Dr. de la Paz performs a full visual exam with digital x-rays to get an accurate picture of your oral health.
Treatment planning
The most conservative option is always discussed first. Simple cases — like filling a cavity — are often completed in a single visit.
Impressions & lab fabrication
For crowns, inlays, and bridges, an impression is taken and sent to a dental lab. A temporary restoration may be placed while you wait.
Final placement
Once the permanent restoration arrives, Dr. de la Paz fits and cements it securely in place.
services
Restorative options
01
Fillings
For mild to moderate decay, a filling removes the damaged tissue and seals the tooth. Completed in about one hour. Material options include composite resin (tooth-colored) or amalgam.
02
Inlays & Onlays
A step up from fillings for larger areas of decay. Inlays fit within the tooth's cusps; onlays cover one or more cusps. Custom-made from porcelain or composite — stronger and more durable than a standard filling.
03
Root canal therapy
When decay reaches the tooth pulp and nerve, a root canal removes the infection. Local anesthetic keeps you comfortable throughout. The tooth is then sealed and typically capped with a crown for long-term strength.
04
Dental crowns
A tooth-shaped cap that restores a cracked, broken, or severely decayed tooth. Also used to anchor bridges or top implants. Most commonly made from ceramic or porcelain for a natural look.
05
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are used to replace a missing tooth or teeth. This treatment option includes the placement of crowns on teeth on each side of the gap to anchor the bridge in place. The bridge contains one to three artificial teeth, called pontics, that fill the void left behind by a missing tooth or teeth.
what our patients usually ask us
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which treatment I need?
Will the restoration look natural?
Is the procedure painful?
How long do restorations last?
Does insurance cover restorative dentistry?
Insurances We Work With
At Bright Smile Dental, we provide efficient, educational, and judgement-free dental services for Tacoma community members in search of relief for their dental pain or other concerns.
