Teeth can break for many reasons, including chewing hard substances, trauma from falls or sports, teeth grinding, using teeth to open things, or structural weakness caused by large fillings or decay. When this happens, the damage can manifest as a chip, a crack, or a complete fracture. A common and understandable concern is whether a broken tooth can be fixed. The good news is that, with modern dental procedures, most damaged teeth can be salvaged. Please continue reading as we explore potential treatment options and the importance of connecting with the experienced team at Dental Associates of Basking Ridge for our cosmetic dentistry services.
How Do Dentists Fix a Broken Tooth?
If you’ve sustained a broken tooth, the treatment required to repair it depends on the extent of the damage. If it’s just a minor chip, your dentist will likely recommend dental bonding. They will use a tooth-colored material to quickly patch up those tiny chips. This is a minimally invasive treatment, usually completed in just one visit.
If your tooth is seriously banged up, your dentist may turn to dental crowns. A crown basically covers and shields the damaged tooth, restoring its original shape, strength, and function. Dental crowns are standard for bigger breaks.
Veneers are another option for repairing a broken tooth, especially if you’re looking to fix the appearance of your front teeth. These are thin covers that are placed on the front surface, which makes the tooth look better as well as supports the underlying bone structure.
Now, if the inner nerve is damaged, you’ll need a root canal. This is essential if the tooth’s inner pulp is affected or infected. The procedure cleans out the infection and tries to save the tooth. A dentist will normally put a crown on afterward for further protection.
Furthermore, your dentist may have to resort to tooth extraction if you have experienced severe damage and there’s no way to salvage the tooth. If you have ot get a tooth pulled, you can speak to your dentist about different replacement options like implants, bridges, or dentures. They will help you determine the best course of action given your unique needs.
Does Fixing a Broken Tooth Typically Hurt?
You can rest assured that repairing a broken tooth is not a painful experience. Dentists minimize any potential pain by using a local anesthetic when needed. While you might feel slight discomfort during the procedure and mild soreness afterward, this is a normal part of the recovery process. Many treatments can be finished quickly, often in just one or two appointments on the same day, though more involved cases may require additional visits.
At Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, we are prepared to help preserve your smile and maintain your oral health. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
