Are you aware that it’s a good idea to have a chipped or broken tooth repaired as soon as possible? It’s imperative that you do if you’re a regular attendee in the dentist’s chair.

Broken or chipped teeth can cause extensive damage to the pulp and nerves within, leading to infection and even tooth loss.

Are you wondering, “Do dentists fix broken teeth?” and “How can they help me?” if you’ve got one that’s chipped or broken? We’ll answer those questions so that you can be more confident about a broken tooth repair.

With this guide, you can stay confident that the solution given to you by your dentist is the right one for you. Read on to discover more!

The Different Types

Broken teeth can be painful and affect how someone speaks or eats. Thankfully, there are a few different techniques that can be used to repair broken teeth and restore them to their natural-looking, healthy condition. Here are some types of broken tooth repair that you need to know.

Bonding

Broken cusps, chips, and small fractures can be repaired with a composite resin material known as bonding. It is slightly stained and cured to the damaged tooth with a special light.

Veneers

These thin shells are placed over the front of your teeth and made to match the surrounding teeth in color and shape.

Crowns

This is a cap that fits over the damaged tooth and strengthens it by providing more structure and protection. Crowns are made from metal, ceramic, or porcelain.

Implant

A dental implant is placed in the jawbone and eventually becomes part of the jawbone. An artificial tooth is then placed over the implant, which becomes a permanent part of the mouth.

Root Canals

When the nerve of the tooth is damaged, this method is performed to replace the tissue. Dental material is then inserted to replace the missing tooth material.

Symptoms to Look out For

A broken tooth is a condition that can be identified and treated if the symptoms are identified early. Here are some common symptoms that one should look out for.

Pain

Generally, proper dental health will prevent any pain associated with teeth. A broken tooth will cause sharp, intense, prolonged, and possibly radiating pain.

Sensitivity

A broken tooth increases the sensitivity of that particular tooth even when in contact with cool or hot liquids.

When a tooth breaks, the enamel that protects the nerve endings of the tooth is damaged and/or worn away, exposing the tooth to extreme temperatures and other irritants. This exposure causes the tooth nerve to be more sensitive than in a healthy tooth.

Swelling

Swelling on the gums near a damaged tooth should be a red flag that something is wrong. If this symptom is present, there are generally other symptoms that accompany it.

Cracked or Chipped

Clenching or grinding of teeth can result in a cracked or chipped tooth and should be identified to avoid any further damage.

Bleeding

Bleeding gums in the vicinity of the damaged tooth can be a sign of infection. Bleeding gums are usually caused by deep pockets in the gums that can occur when a tooth becomes broken and a gap appears between the gum tissue and the surface of the tooth. This pocket can be warm and filled with a bloody liquid, showing signs of infection.

The Costs

Having a broken tooth can be a frightening experience. Repairing and treating a broken tooth can be costly. Depending on the severity of the break, the costs for treatment and repair can range from several hundred dollars to thousands of dollars.

This cost can increase if a root canal is needed or if a crown is needed to hide chips, cracks, or fractures. Replacement or implant surgery to fit and secure artificial teeth is also an important consideration, costing thousands.

How to Prevent

Whether it was due to an accident or a specific action, dealing with the aftereffects can be overwhelming. The only way to prevent a broken tooth is to follow a few simple tips to protect your smile. Here are some ways to help you keep your teeth healthy to prevent broken tooth repair.

Brush Your Teeth

Brushing twice a day helps remove bacteria and food particles that can lead to plaque buildup which can damage the enamel of a tooth and contribute to broken or cracked teeth.

Use Toothpaste That Contains Fluoride

Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel, which may reduce the risk of a tooth cracking or breaking.

Avoid Hard Foods or Chewing on Hard Objects

Eating hard or crunchy foods or chewing on hard objects such as ice or pencils can weaken tooth enamel and lead to tooth damage.

Avoid Clenching or Grinding

Clenching or grinding of the teeth can cause extensive enamel damage and fractures to the teeth.

Kick the Bad Habits

Avoid using your teeth as tools, refrain from nail-biting, and avoid bad habits such as smoking, as these can all lead to broken or cracked teeth.

Visit the Dentist

Going to the dentist is an important part of keeping your teeth healthy. Visiting the dentist every six months is key to preventing broken teeth, cavities, and other dental problems.

So, if you are looking for an emergency dentist near you, simply search for “Dentist near me.” Through this search, you can find a dentist that is close to you and accepts your insurance. Proper dental care will help ensure that your teeth stay bright and healthy and prevent most tooth repairs.

Smile Again! Get Your Broken Tooth Fixed Today

In conclusion, tooth repair is an important procedure, and everyone should be aware of the process and their oral health options. Educate yourself and ask your dentist what solution is best for you.

Enjoy a healthy smile with proper oral care, starting with a visit to your dentist and a broken tooth repair. Contact your dentist today!

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