A fractured, chipped, or broken tooth occurs when patients have a crack in the tooth. Some cracks may appear small, but others may cause a break or split within the tooth structure. Most people can suffer a tooth break, but the most common demographics include children and older adults. To fix the tooth, some patients may receive a filling.
When patients break or chip their teeth, they generally want a solution as quickly as possible. Fortunately, there are various ways to fix broken teeth. One of the most common ways is through the use of fillings.
Teeth can become fractured in various ways. Even patients who put forth a maximum effort to keep their teeth healthy may struggle with fractures and chips because of blunt force. Chips may occur due to car accidents or sporting events but also during mealtime. Hard foods and other objects easily chip the teeth.
Chipped teeth may bother a patient for cosmetic reasons, or the patient may acquire complications due to the crack. One consequence of chipped teeth is lacerations to the tongue. A broken tooth can leave an area sharp or jagged and may cut the tongue or inside of a patient's cheek.
Additionally, chips may expose nerves. Patients may find themselves sensitive to pressure and sensitivity. Drinking cold or hot beverages, for example, may cause shooting pain from root to tooth. When chips are serious, they can expose the tooth's inner structure and leave the teeth open to cavities, infections, and abscesses.
When patients do not seek dental help for a chipped tooth, it can cause the break to worsen. Chips and fractures weaken the structure of the tooth and can cause a severe break. Simple chewing can escalate the break into something more challenging to fix.
When it comes to broken teeth, most patients opt for composite fillings because they are not visible. Traditional amalgam fillings are metal and tend to be less suited for fixing cracked or chipped teeth. Composite fillings use a strong material that dentists can stain to match the patient's teeth. Before hardening the filling, the dentist can mold the filling to fit into cracks or replace chips.
Before placing the filling, dentists perform exams on the teeth to check for further damage. When applying the material, dentists match the shape of the tooth. After applying the material and ensuring it matches the tooth, the dentist uses a special light to harden the filling. Most composite fillings last for about seven years.
When patients have broken teeth, they should receive dental care as soon as possible to avoid any complications. Severe breaks, infections, and abscesses can occur when left untreated. Often, dentists can use fillings to help repair the broken tooth. When choosing fillings, most patients opt for composite to match the shape and color of their natural teeth.
Request an appointment here: https://www.keepsmilingdentalpc.com or call Keep Smiling Dental PC at (908) 425-4051 for an appointment in our Belleville office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth in Belleville, NJ.
Dental crowns are one of the versatile restorations used in dentistry. Crowns are used to save damaged teeth that cannot be saved using less invasive procedures. Damage can occur to teeth at any time, leaving them severely compromised.Placing a crown on a tooth requires making permanent alterations by removing enamel to create a better fit.…
A cosmetic dentist can use a dental crown to improve your dental health. A tooth with severe decay or discoloration can be depressing. The infection could reach the pulp at any time. Placing a custom-fit dental crown can protect your tooth from further damage and injury. If you want to know more about the steps…
A dental bridge is a common method of teeth replacement in which a bridge of replacement teeth, known as pontics, are attached to crowns or the natural teeth on each side of the gap left by missing teeth. They are a great way to restore the appearance and health of your smile after tooth loss,…
For years, Botox® has been a method to treat various health conditions and wellness issues. People have looked to this treatment to smooth wrinkles and other blemishes of the face. This drug is a toxin made from a specific bacterium, and it has many other uses today. You may even find that it is useful…