Options to Fix a Broken Tooth

Unfortunately, teeth get broken every day. You might have chewed on a chip wrong (or you may have been hit in the face). You could have knocked your filling out (or even lost a small part of your tooth). Sometimes, you may only have a crack, though there are times when you may lose most of your tooth. If you have been hit in the face, you may be facing significant damage to your tooth. Depending on the exact damage to your tooth, you are going to have several options when it comes to fixing your tooth. 

Here are some of the options that your dentist may suggest:

Dental sealants

Sealants are mainly used to protect your teeth against the bacteria that causes cavities. That being said, it can also be used to protect a cracked tooth. Instead of doing anything major, a sealant may be able to seal the crack, so you don't lose your tooth (or need major dental work.)

Bonding

If you only lost a small part of your tooth, you may be able to get away with some bonding. This is the easiest procedure that can be done on a damaged tooth. Your dentist will put a tooth-colored piece of composite over the broken tooth to make your tooth into the right shape. A blue light will harden the material until it is as hard as your original tooth. 

Filling

Fillings are commonly used for broken teeth. Though you may think that they are only used on cavities, the truth is that they can be good with broken teeth. Restorative material is placed on your tooth and shaped so that it looks like your natural tooth. This is a very cost-effective way to fix a broken tooth. 

Root canal

If your tooth is severely broken (or really painful), you may need a root canal. This is commonly done when the infection gets into the pulp due to the break. Your dentist will have to go in and clean out the infection, and then you will have to decide what needs to be done with your tooth. Most of the time, a crown is placed over the leftover tooth. 

Crown

If you have a decaying or severely broken tooth, you may need to have a crown placed over what is left of your tooth. It is made of porcelain or ceramic and is made to look just like your natural teeth. This is usually the best option when your tooth is broken, though you may need a root canal done before the crown can be placed. 

Veneers

Veneers are commonly used for cosmetic dentistry to improve a smile. They are made of porcelain or composite resin material and are made to stick to your teeth to make them all look better. It may be enough to place one over your broken tooth, though there may be better options for you. 

Dental implants

Dental implants are used with really bad broken teeth, especially when it is near the gum-line. Your broken tooth (or teeth) are removed, and an implant is placed in your jaw. After it heals, a replacement tooth will be hooked onto the implant. This is a great option for those who have a severely broken tooth because it will stay as strong as your original teeth. 

If you have a broken tooth, you are going to need to call the dentist as soon as possible. If you are in pain, you may want to take an over-the-counter medication until you can get in. Once you visit your dentist, he or she will likely take x-rays to determine what needs to be done. If the tooth is cracked, you may be able to get away with a coating of sealant to protect it. You may also need some bonding or filling. However, if it is more severe, you may need to have a root canal to deal with the infection. Then, you may want a crown placed over your tooth. If the tooth is broken near the gum-line, your best bet may be to get implants. However, your dentist will be able to go over your options when you go in for an exam. Call us at Charlotte Root Canal Center today to book an appointment for a consultation and we’ll help restore your smile!