Options for Fixing a Cracked or Broken Tooth
Don’t let a broken tooth keep you from smiling!
A cracked or broken tooth results from a variety of things.
A blow to the tooth, chewing hard food, and opening something with your teeth are just a few examples of how everyday incidents can crack your teeth.
If you do break or chip your tooth, the first thing to do is call your dentist.
Many dentists offer emergency dentistry services which include the repair of broken teeth. If not, he or she may recommend pain relief options while you wait to get an appointment.
There are several options available for fixing a broken tooth.
Talk to your dentist about which is best for your unique situation.
> Veneers
Veneers are custom-made, tooth-colored shells made from porcelain, or resin composite materials. They cover the front surface of the tooth to improve the appearance of your smile. Veneers are a great option if your chipped or broken tooth poses more of a cosmetic issue.
According to WebMD, “Veneers offer a conservative approach to changing a tooth’s color and shape; veneers don’t generally require the extensive shaping prior to the procedure that crowns do, yet offer a stronger, more aesthetic alternative.”
> Crowns
Unlike veneers, crowns cover the entire portion of the exposed tooth and are a bit thicker. Crowns are used to restore a tooth’s appearance and shape. They’re typically made of ceramic, porcelain, or metal and a great choice if your tooth is badly broken or decayed.
Some offices offer same day crowns, saving you return trips to the dentist. Ask your dentist if a crown is the right choice for you.
> Bonding
Bonding is perhaps the least involved procedure for fixing a chipped or broken tooth. Reserved for minor, uncomplicated chips, the bonding procedure involves molding a composite material over the tooth to correct its appearance. The composite material is then set with a blue light that hardens the material.
If you have a minor crack or chip in your tooth, bonding might be right for you.
> Dental Implants
Dental implants are a more extensive procedure reserved for a tooth cracked close to the gum line. Your dentist will remove the damaged tooth and replace it with an implant.
According to colgate.com, “By removing the tooth and allowing the space to heal, your dentist can then add a metal post in the gum line prior to installing an implant that looks and feels like a real tooth.”
Discuss the many options available with your dentist to discover the best solution to restore your smile.
If you have questions about smile restoration, we’d love to help! Contact Gole Dental today!