If your tooth is cracked, it can usually be repaired to ensure its continued health and functionality. There are several options for restoring a broken or cracked tooth, such as fillings, bonding, inlays/onlays, veneers and dental crowns. Our dentists will help you decide which option is best for you. Find out more about how to fix a cracked tooth with the treatments available at Leichardt Marketplace Dental.
Is a cracked tooth a dental emergency?
Generally, broken teeth do not typically constitute a dental emergency. However, if a large portion of the tooth is missing, you are in pain or bleeding profusely, you should visit an emergency dentist immediately.
Furthermore, if you have damaged dental restorations, such as crowns, inlays/onlays or veneers, then we suggest you contact an emergency dentist at our clinic for further advice.
How to fix a cracked tooth with dental treatments?
Dentists use several treatments to repair cracked or damaged teeth. The most suitable treatment for your situation depends on several factors, including the extent of the damage, where the tooth is in the mouth and your preferences. If you want to know how to fix a cracked tooth, you must visit a dentist for advice.
Fillings
Dental fillings are used to restore teeth that are broken, chipped, or decayed. Traditionally, dental fillings were highly visible silver amalgam. Nowadays, plastic fillings are the preferred choice for modern dentistry. Referred to as composite fillings, they are made of a tooth-coloured resin applied to the tooth’s surface and hardened with a high-intensity light.
For anyone who wants a better cosmetic result than silver amalgam fillings, composite is a reasonably inexpensive option, although not as hard-wearing as amalgam.
Bonding
If you have chipped or cracked teeth, dental bonding can help restore your smile. Bonding is a non-invasive procedure where a tooth-coloured composite resin is applied to the tooth enamel to conceal the damage. The results look natural, but bonding is probably not a suitable treatment if a tooth has extensive damage.
Inlays/Onlays
Another option to restore a broken tooth is with an inlay or onlay. Inlays and onlays are indirect restorations made in a dental lab and bonded to the tooth by the dentist. An onlay covers more extensive damage and is placed over the tooth cusps (the points on the back teeth), whereas inlays typically repair damage and are placed inside the cusps.
Dental Crowns
A crown is a tooth-shaped covering placed over a problem tooth to restore normal function and appearance.
Crowns are made from various materials, including porcelain, porcelain fused to metal (PFM), metal alloys (including gold) and zirconia, which are all suitable materials if you are considering how to fix a cracked tooth so that it lasts.
Dental crowns are versatile and placed over the tooth to add strength and support. Additionally, they can be used as artificial teeth in a dental implant or bridge to replace missing teeth.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin bonded to the fronts of teeth. They are used to improve the appearance of teeth by covering cracks, chips, discolouration, and other defects. They are popular with patients because they are durable, long-lasting, and easy to maintain.
How to Fix A Cracked Tooth – The Takeaway
Accidents can happen, leaving you with a cracked or broken tooth. In most cases, there’s no need to visit an emergency dentist for immediate treatment unless you are in pain. However, if a large portion of the tooth has broken off or you’re bleeding from the mouth, then it’s regarded as a dental emergency.
It’s always a good idea to visit your dentist promptly if you have a cracked or broken tooth, as ignoring it can make matters worse and lead to more severe dental problems.
If you have a cracked or broken tooth, our experienced dentists can help. Contact Leichardt Marketplace Dental on (02) 9171 0840 today for an appointment.
References
Web MD: Dental crowns
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/dental-crowns
Medical News Today: What to know about dental veneers
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dental-veneers