Nowadays, dentists have many options at their disposal when it comes to fixing broken teeth. A person's teeth can become damaged as a result of tooth decay, biting down too hard or trauma from sports and accidents. Also, when teeth become softened by the acids and other irritants in the mouth, they become more susceptible to cracks and breaks.
The type of procedure a dentist uses for fixing broken teeth often depends on the type of damage. Broken teeth can be split into three different categories:
When a tooth becomes fractured or cracked, the entire tooth is damaged even though the tooth remains intact. Trying to chew with a cracked tooth can lead to severe pain and a variety of health issues, including infections. It is best to see a dentist immediately when a tooth is cracked.
The term "chipped tooth" refers to when a small portion of a tooth has broken off. It can happen to any part of the tooth, but it is typically the easiest type of broken tooth to deal with.
A patient has a split tooth when a tooth has been fractured and has broken apart. The tooth can no longer be saved at this point. It is often best to replace it with a dental implant.
As mentioned above, there are a few options when it comes to fixing broken teeth. The procedure chosen by the dentist often depends on each patient's unique circumstances and their budget. The most popular options are:
Dental bonding is the most affordable option when it comes to repairing a broken tooth. The dentist will select a composite that matches the color of the patient's teeth and it is applied directly to the broken tooth. The putty-like material is then shaped as desired before being hardened with an ultraviolet light.
Dental veneers are dental prosthetics that serve as covers for the front of a tooth. They are used to hide any imperfections on the tooth. Veneers are a long-lasting solution that can last for over 15 years when proper oral hygiene is practiced. Veneers are typically used when dealing with chipped teeth.
Dental crowns are a very popular method when it comes to fixing a broken tooth. Also known as caps, these crowns are used to cover the entire tooth stabilizing it and protect it from further damage. This allows the user to continue using the tooth without experiencing pain. Crowns can be used on any type of broken tooth, but they are most often used for severe breaks and fractures.
If the break makes its way into the pulp chamber, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth. During the procedure, the nerve and pulp are removed from the tooth, taking away any pain the patient is experiencing. A crown is then placed over the tooth to protect it from further damage.
Dealing with broken teeth? Schedule a consultation with one of our oral professionals and explore your options.
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