Here's What You Need to Know

What it is: The composite material is reinforced plastic that can repair chips, cracks, and small gaps between the teeth, as well as cover white spots (caused by calcium deposits) that become more apparent as teeth wear down with age. The dentist sculpts the plastic onto the tooth and hardens it with a special light. After it's hardened, it's sanded and polished so that the surface appears seamless with the natural tooth.

Best for: Small fixes.

Does it work? Yes, and very well. Though the composite material can gradually stain, bonding can be done in one office visit, and it's less expensive and invasive than other fixes like veneers. It lasts from five to 15 years, depending on the quality of the dentist's work and whether or not you're a grinder.

Cost: $200 to $500 per tooth, depending on the complexity of the restoration.