A cracked tooth is a common dental problem that can cause extreme discomfort. If you’re unfortunate enough to experience a cracked tooth, you might be wondering what your options are for fixing it. Fortunately, there are several ways to repair a cracked tooth. Read on to find out more.
Visit Your Dentist
The most important thing to do when you have a cracked tooth is to visit your dentist. Once they’ve identified the crack and assessed its severity, they’ll be able to provide you with a suitable treatment plan. Depending on the severity of the crack, there are several options available.
If the crack is minor, your dentist may recommend a simple filling or crown. A filling involves using a material such as composite resin to fill the crack and restore the tooth’s shape. A crown is a cap that covers the entire visible surface of the tooth, protecting it from further damage. Both fillings and crowns are relatively simple and straightforward procedures.
Root Canal Treatment
If the crack is more serious, your dentist may recommend root canal treatment. This involves removing infected tissue from the inside of the tooth, cleaning the canals and filling them with a special material. This helps to protect the tooth from further damage and restores its natural shape and appearance.
Root canal treatment can be a lengthy and complex procedure, so it’s important to discuss all of the potential risks and benefits with your dentist before deciding whether or not to go ahead with it. It’s also worth noting that you may need to have a crown fitted after the root canal is complete, as this will help to further protect the tooth from further damage.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is another option for repairing a cracked tooth. This involves using a special composite resin to bond the broken pieces together. The resin is applied to the crack and then hardened using a special light. The resin is then shaped and polished to match the colour and shape of your natural teeth.
Dental bonding is usually a straightforward and relatively quick procedure. In most cases, it can be completed in one visit to the dentist. It’s also a relatively cost-effective option, making it a popular choice for many people.
Dental Veneers
If the crack is more severe and the tooth is severely damaged, your dentist may recommend dental veneers. Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of the tooth. They are designed to improve the appearance of the tooth, while also providing protection from further damage. Veneers can be used to cover up chips and cracks, as well as discolouration.
Veneers are a more expensive option than fillings or crowns, and the procedure is more complex. Therefore, it’s important to discuss all of your options with your dentist before deciding whether or not to go ahead with it.
Extraction or Replacement
In some cases, the tooth may be too severely damaged to be repaired. In this situation, your dentist may recommend extraction or replacement. If the tooth is extracted, it will need to be replaced with either a bridge or an implant.
Bridges are false teeth that are held in place by other teeth on either side of the gap. Implants are artificial teeth that are inserted directly into the jawbone. Both of these options can be used to replace a missing tooth and restore your smile.
Conclusion
If you have a cracked tooth, it’s important to seek professional help from your dentist as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the crack, your dentist may recommend a simple filling or crown, root canal treatment, dental bonding, or dental veneers. In some cases, extraction or replacement may be necessary. It’s important to discuss all of your options with your dentist before deciding which treatment is best for you.