A broken tooth can not only make your smile appear rough and jagged, it can also compromise your oral health. When a tooth has a fracture – no matter how mild or severe – it can weaken the structure and lead to further dental damage. Dr. Matthew L. Bridges, your general dentist in Duncan, OK, provides several treatments for broken or fractured teeth, so you can look and feel your best. Today, we will discuss the different types of fractures and explore 5 treatments for a broken tooth. These procedures will help restore your smile and your health should the unexpected happen.
Mild Fractures
As you might imagine, not all fractures are the same. Craze lines and other superficial cracks usually only affect the outermost layer of a tooth. These types of breaks can cause aesthetic concerns, but generally cause no discomfort. Other types of mild fractures, such as broken cusps, can be harmless at first, but can eventually lead to further damage. Dental bonding or porcelain veneers can address these types of problems.
Dental Bonding
One of the most versatile treatments in dentistry, dental bonding involves the application of a composite resin material. Also used to fill small cavities, composite resin can be color-matched to your surrounding teeth. Dental bonding can change the shape of a tooth, making it wider or longer as needed. After applying the material, Dr. Bridges will harden it with a specialized curing light and will shape and contour your tooth for a natural-looking appearance.
Porcelain Veneers
Designed to bond to the front surfaces of the teeth, veneers can conceal cosmetic imperfections, as well. These custom-made restorations are ultra-thin and are crafted from porcelain for a lifelike sheen. Depending on your situation, you may require multiple veneers to achieve the desired results. Your general dentist in Duncan, OK can help you understand all of your treatment options.
Moderate to Severe Fractures
Larger, more complex fractures typically require more extensive treatment. For example, if a crack runs into the internal structure of a tooth, it may require a crown or root canal therapy.
Dental Crown
A large fracture can often be addressed with a dental crown. This custom restoration fits over the entire tooth structure, and can be fabricated from a variety of strong, natural-looking materials. In order for the crown to fit properly, the natural tooth structure will need to be reduced and reshaped. However, once placed, a crown can provide reinforcement and strength to a weakened tooth.
Root Canal Therapy
When a fracture extends to the pulp of a tooth, the internal structures become vulnerable to infection and bacteria. To remedy this situation, root canal therapy can be performed. During this procedure, the infected tissues inside the tooth are removed, and the root canals are filled with a specialized dental material. The tooth is then sealed with a filling or a dental crown.
Tooth Extraction
Unfortunately, there are some types of fractures that necessitate tooth removal. For example, a split tooth that can be separated into distinct segments or a tooth with a vertical root fracture does not have a good long-term prognosis. In these cases, Dr. Bridges will recommend a tooth extraction. Before moving forward with treatment, your replacement options will be discussed with you as well.
Contact Your General Dentist in Duncan, OK
If you have recently sustained a broken tooth or another form of dental damage, schedule a consultation at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK. You can contact us online or call our office at (580) 255-4880.
