Broken and cracked teeth indicate the need to visit a dentist. Your treatment depends on different factors like the location of the tooth, the degree of the crack, and treatment history of the tooth, and whether tooth decay and infection are present. The majority of teeth cracks and chips can be easily addressed; however, serious breaks and fractures require more intensive treatment or even extraction. A dentist who specializes in cosmetic dentistry in Coconut Creek can help you determine the best restoration option for your teeth.
When your tooth sustains a significant track, contact your dentist as soon as possible. A broken tooth must be repaired right away. Each day you ignore a broken tooth, the risk of infection increases. Until you can visit your dentist, brush your teeth cautiously to ensure you don’t worsen the issue.
How Your Tooth Can Break or Crack
Teeth grinding and clenching are habits that can damage your teeth. If you wake up with a headache or jaw pain, this can mean that something is wrong with your teeth.
If you have misaligned teeth, you tend to put excessive pressure on one side of your mouth, which increases the risk of tooth breaks or cracks. Your teeth can also get damaged because of an injury and can crack on impact. These are serious kinds of breaks, so consider this a dental emergency. Also, using your teeth as a tool, such as for cutting food packages and bottles or cutting thread, increases your risk of chipping the tooth enamel.
How Your Dentist Can Treat a Broke or Cracked Tooth
Your dentist will evaluate the tooth damage and determine the best treatment option for it. Treatment options include the following:
- Simple bonding. Bonding is a great option for superficial teeth cracks that do not cause pain. The crack can be repaired using composite resin, which is the same material used for making white fillings. Simple bonding is perfect for treating craze lines.
- Dental veneers. Veneers are made to match your teeth’s shape and shade. Also, your dentist can reshape them to provide you with more beautiful teeth. Dental veneers are perfect for restoring broken or cracked teeth, but they are not a good option for those who grind their teeth.
- Dental crowns. These caps are placed over the chewing surfaces of your teeth, making the damaged tooth stronger. They are a perfect option if you have a fractured cusp.
