Even though healthy teeth are quite durable, damage can still take place at any time. If you have recently cracked or chipped a tooth, then you might want to spend a little bit of time researching some of the treatment options that could help you restore your smile.
Bonding
For minor damage that is only on the surface of the tooth, a dentist might suggest dental bonding to fix the damage. Dental bonding is a minimally invasive procedure that allows a dentist to restore the appearance and structural integrity of a tooth with a composite resin. Once the resin is in place and the material has been cured, the tooth is going to look completely natural. As a bonus, bonding material can last for up to 10 years with the proper aftercare.
Veneers
When the damage is slightly more extensive and bonding isn’t an option, the next consideration is typically a veneer. That device is nothing more than a very thin sliver of porcelain or resin that is attached directly to the front of the tooth. Unfortunately, veneers are typically only a good option if the damage is on the outward face of a tooth or close to the biting edge.
Crowns
Another treatment option that your emergency dentist might suggest is a dental crown, and one of those devices will completely encapsulate the damaged tooth. Your dentist will begin by shaving and etching the outside of the natural tooth before placing a bonding material on all surfaces. They can then slide the custom crown over the tooth to completely protect it from additional damage. For many patients, a high-quality crown can last for 20 years or longer.
Implants
When a crack or chip is severe and the pulp has been exposed, extracting the tooth might be the only option. Exposed tooth pulp can quickly become infected, and dentists typically do everything in their power to avoid those secondary complications. An implant is a custom crown that is permanently attached to the patient’s jaw with a titanium rod, and it is going to look and feel just like a real tooth once you have fully recovered from the procedure.
While a cracked or chipped tooth might not seem like a medical emergency, that type of damage must be taken seriously. When left untreated, damage on the surface of the tooth can quickly result in additional oral health problems that bring your life to a halt.
