Three types of broken teeth, some more obvious than others, include chipped, cracked, or split teeth. A chipped tooth occurs when a chip is on the tooth’s surface. Often, patients chip their teeth without realizing it because there may be no pain associated with it. A cracked tooth refers to a fracture in any part of the tooth’s structure, including the enamel, dentin, or pulp chamber, that results in an opening through which bacteria can enter and cause infection. Finally, a split tooth is one in which the outer layer of enamel separates from the inner core of dentin but does not completely detach from it.
The general dentist typically uses fillings for those who recently received cavity treatment. A cavity occurs when sugars eat away at the patient’s enamel, creating a small hole in a tooth. This creates a higher risk of pain, sensitivity, and the probability of the pulp chamber (the inner layer where nerves reside) being compromised. The dentist will fill the hole with composite, porcelain, or metal material to restore the tooth’s appearance and functionality.
The general dentist will place a crown (cap) over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns protect teeth from further damage and restore broken teeth. The dentist will most likely recommend a crown for one who has broken their front tooth.
A dental crown can consist of porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), or composite materials. While all three materials provide a durable and natural-looking finish, PFM crowns are more resistant to fracture due to the additional strength from metal in the structure.
To complete this procedure successfully, it will take two appointments. A technician crafts the crown in an offsite lab and returns to the office. While the patient waits for their crown, the dentist will fit them with a temporary crown to prevent further damage and sensitivity.
The general dentist will use bonding to repair chips and cracks. Dental bonding is a procedure that uses composite resin to easily and quickly restore the damage that has not gone too deep into the tooth’s structure. They can also use bonding to close gaps between teeth. The procedure duration will vary depending on the size of the break and the number of teeth that need treatment. However, most procedures finish within an hour.
If the broken tooth has affected the pulp chamber, the general dentist will perform a root canal to save its natural structure. In this procedure, the dentist will remove all of the nerve tissue and bacteria inside the tooth and then fill the newly empty space with an inert material called gutta-percha. Finally, they will seal it off before recommending another restorative procedure, like a protective crown.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Roswell, GA
If you believe you have broken your tooth, do not delay treatment. Contact us today. We will schedule you an appointment with our general dentist to help restore your smile in a breeze.
Request an appointment or call Roswell Dental Smiles at 770-238-1209 for an appointment in our Roswell office.
Clenching and grinding the teeth, also known as bruxism, can wear them down and cause jaw and ear pain. General dentists can help patients with bruxism avoid pain and discomfort. This blog will review the causes, symptoms, and treatments for teeth grinding.It is common for people to be unaware they clench or grind their teeth…
General dentistry aims to keep your teeth and gums healthy by educating you about proper oral hygiene and performing preventative treatments that protect against issues like gum disease and tooth decay. The American Dental Association recommends going to the dentist at least two times per year. These visits are used to evaluate the condition of…
A general dentist can help if you find yourself dealing with tooth pain. As uncomfortable as these sensations can be, they are your body’s way of letting you know something is wrong. It is typically one of the last symptoms of unaddressed dental issues to show up.Some of the reasons why you might experience toothaches…
Clenching and grinding the teeth, also known as bruxism, can wear them down and cause…
Visiting a dentist twice a year increases the odds of any developing issues being detected…
A dentist can offer helpful tips to ensure patients enjoy the benefits of implants long-term.
This article will examine the steps to getting dental implants from start to finish.
A general dentist can help if you find yourself dealing with tooth pain. As uncomfortable…
General dentists can perform dozens of different procedures, so they may have a long list…
