Maybe you’ve had a bad fall. Or you were crunching on some hard candy and realised you cracked your tooth. It can be a scary time. But don’t worry. Thanks to modern dentistry, your tooth and your smile can be repaired.
In this article, we will explore the steps involved in repairing a cracked tooth and the importance of seeking professional dental care.
How to Repair a Cracked Tooth : Immediate Self-care Measures
If you have a cracked, chipped, or fractured tooth, see your dentist as soon as possible. Otherwise, your tooth could be damaged further or become infected, increasing the risk of tooth loss.
- Book a Dental Appointment: Schedule a dentist visit quickly to prevent the crack from getting worse or causing infections.
- Relieve Pain: If the cracked tooth hurts, rinse your mouth with saltwater or use over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Opt for Softer Foods: Avoid chewing on the affected side and stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, or porridge to avoid further damage before your dental appointment.
How to Repair a Cracked Tooth: Treatment Options
The first step in repairing a cracked tooth is to assess the severity of the crack. There are various types of cracks, ranging from minor surface cracks to more severe fractures that extend into the root. Identifying the type of crack is essential for determining the appropriate treatment.
Dental Bonding for Minor Cracks:
For superficial cracks that don’t extend into the tooth’s structure, dental bonding may be recommended. This procedure involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the cracked surface and shaping it to match the natural tooth. The resin is then hardened using a special light.
Veneers for Minor Cracks
Veneers offer a cosmetic solution for repairing cracked teeth, particularly when the cracks are minor and primarily affect the tooth’s appearance. These thin shells, typically made of porcelain, are custom-designed to fit over the front surface of the tooth, concealing imperfections and providing a natural-looking finish.
The process involves removing a small amount of enamel to accommodate the veneer, making it a minimally invasive option. However, it is important to note that veneers may not be suitable for more severe cracks that compromise the tooth’s structural integrity or extend into the pulp.In such cases, a comprehensive dental assessment is recommended to determine the most appropriate and effective treatment for repairing the cracked tooth.
Dental Crowns for Moderate Cracks:
If the crack is more extensive but doesn’t affect the tooth’s pulp, a dental crown may be the solution. A crown is a cap that covers the damaged tooth, restoring its strength and appearance. Crowns are typically made from materials like porcelain or ceramic for a natural look.
Traditionally, getting a crown required multiple appointments and waiting for a lab to create the crown. However, with same day crowns at DP Dental, you can now address the restoration needs of damaged, decayed, cracked, or broken teeth—all in just one day.
4. Root Canal Therapy for Severe Cracks:
In cases where the crack extends into the tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be necessary. The pulp is at the centre of the tooth, and contains nerves and blood vessels, and in such cases, there is a risk of bacteria entering and causing an infection.
If your tooth hurts, changes colour, or is sensitive to heat, it indicates that the pulp is probably damaged or diseased. If left untreated, the pulp tissue can die, leading to infection, and the tooth may ultimately require extraction.
Root canal treatment involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further infection. A crown is then placed to protect the tooth.
5. Tooth Extraction and Replacement:
In extreme cases where the crack is irreparable, the tooth may need to be extracted. Dentists will discuss replacement options, such as dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures, to maintain the functionality and aesthetics of your smile.
6. Preventive Measures:
After repairing a cracked tooth, it is crucial to adopt preventive measures. This includes practising good oral hygiene, avoiding chewing on hard objects, and wearing a mouthguard if you engage in activities that pose a risk of dental injury.
If you have a cracked tooth, it is important to seek professional care immediately so you can avoid further damage and possible infection, and save your tooth.
At DP Dental, our dentists use modern technology to thoroughly assess your dental needs. We prioritise a holistic approach, avoiding tooth extraction whenever possible. Our dentists will advise you on all your options so that you can select the treatment best suited to your circumstances. Your oral health and well-being are our top priorities.
You may contact us at:
- DP Dental Kovan: 6282 0122
- DP Dental Orchard: 6219 3082
- DP Coast Dental Katong: 6440 4605
We look forward to serving you and enhancing your dental experience with cutting-edge technology and expert care.
