Restoring a tooth back to form and function can simply be achieved with a filling. Broken teeth and decayed teeth can be restored with amalgam, tooth coloured composites or gold or ceramic inlays. Your dentist will discuss with you the different types of materials to repair your tooth and will advise which is most suitable.
We are fortunate to be able to use all the modern materials that allow us to conserve as much tooth tissue as possible, this is MID or Minimal Intervention Dentistry. Modern tooth coloured filling materials can be used to give the best aesthetics when needed, for instance when repairing a front chipped tooth, or they can be used for strength and endurance, say in a posterior biting tooth.
Your dental team will always help guide you and discuss the various materials available to you.