Tough Breaks: Treatments for Tooth Fractures
If you have a tooth that is seriously fractured, it poses a number of cosmetic issues and general health and wellness issues. Thankfully we have plenty of treatment options here at Advanced Dentistry of Blakeney, a leading restorative dentistry center serving the people of Charlotte.
We'd like to take a moment to consider the dangers posed by tooth fractures and what treatment options may be the right one for you.
The Dangers of Fractured Teeth
In terms of dental health, a fractured tooth can result in dental pain, toothaches, tooth sensitivity, which can make biting and chewing very uncomfortable. In addition, a fractured tooth increased the risk of a root canal infection and tooth loss.
As far as the aesthetics of your smile is concerned, a fractured tooth can leave you feeling self-conscious about laughing and smiling around others, including loved ones and people you have known for years. If your job involves a lot of public interaction, it could make your professional life much more difficult as well.
Dental Bonding
For very minor chips and cracks that are cosmetic in nature, your best option for treatment is typically a little bit of dental bonding. Dental bonding involves the use of tooth-colored dental resin that is painted onto the tooth itself. The resin is polished and blended to make the cosmetic work appear seamless. The fracture will be hidden from view and your tooth will look just fine.
Porcelain Veneers
For more serious tooth fractures that are still predominantly cosmetic in nature, porcelain veneers are a good option to consider. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of dental ceramic that can be affixed to the fronts of the teeth. With porcelain veneers in place, cosmetic flaws are hidden from view and a tooth looks pristine and perfect. Porcelain veneers can also be used to mask stains, small gaps, and issues with tooth alignment.
Dental Fillings
For more serious fractures that affect the structure of a tooth, your best option is a dental restoration. Fillings are ideal for minor fractures, allowing dentists to rebuild tooth structure and prevent serious health issues from occurring.
Inlays and Onlays
For major fractures that cannot be addressed through dental fillings alone, the best option to consider is an inlay or an onlay. Inlays and onlays are similar to dental fillings, though they are able to replace more of a tooth's structure, include the cusps (biting surfaces).
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are an option used when no other treatment may be ideal. The dental crown is used to cap a tooth that's severely damaged, protecting it from further harm and allowing a patient to bite and chew without discomfort.
What If a Tooth Cannot Be Restored?
If a tooth is so severely damaged that it cannot be saved, tooth extraction may be necessary. If this happens, there are different options to consider to replace the missing tooth, from a dental bridge to a crown supported by a dental implant. We can discuss these matters more during your visit.
Learn More About Dental Care Treatments
For more information about treating tooth fractures and enhancing your overall dental health and wellness, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. The team here at Advanced Dentistry of Blakeney will work with you to enhance your smile.
