Have you ever faced the tragedy of a broken tooth? A tooth could break due to loss of enamel or an external injury. Accidents may cause fractures which lead to broken or cracked teeth. The majority of such cases are observed in the age group of 40 and above, but accidental breakage can happen with anyone at any time.
Broken or fractured teeth fall under the category of dental emergency and if not treated properly they may lead to moderate to severe infections. Cracks and cavities allow easy ingress of bacteria. This infects and damages teeth along with gums.
Got a broken tooth and looking for a good dentist in Grand Prairie? Let’s read further to know more about how broken teeth could be treated at a dental clinic.
Major Reasons Behind Teeth Breakage
Most of the time, it’s the misalignment and overcrowding of teeth that cause cracks or breaks upon a trauma.
People having a tendency of using their teeth for cutting threads, breaking seals, opening caps, etc. risk themselves cracking their teeth enamel. Weakened or cracked enamel makes the teeth prone to easy breakage.
Injuries or extreme physical force could cause teeth to crack open.
If you have the habit of grinding or clenching teeth, it brings you to the risk of easily cracking your teeth.
Broke a Tooth? What to Do Now?
As per the safety guidelines by American Dental Association (ADA), it is suggested to rinse your mouth with lukewarm water as soon as the tooth breaks. Next, put comfortable pressure to stop bleeding, if any. Using a cold compress helps in alleviating the swelling.
Other than that, if you have a chipped or broken tooth, save it for 24 hrs by keeping it in milk or covering it with wet gauze before bringing it to the dentist.
Treatments at a Dental Clinic
A broken or fractured tooth is a haven for bacteria build-up eventually causing severe tooth and gum infections like periodontitis.
But, no need to worry at all! With good dental care and treatment at a reputed dental office, one may avoid every possible dental complication with ease. Treatments for broken or fractured teeth depend on your condition and medical history.
Here are some of the most popular treatments which you can find at a dental clinic in Grand Prairie:
Fillings: Dental cement is used to fill up the cavities and in preventing them from enlarging.
Dental Crown: A dental crown is a cap that resembles your natural teeth and is used in cases of high severity when simple filling cannot suffice the damage.
Dental Veneers: They are temporary covers that are placed above the teeth surface if the teeth are chipped or not in proper shape.
Dental Sealants: A dental-grade sealant is used to patch the hairline fractures in the teeth.
Dental Bonding: Dental bonding repairs cracked, chipped, or broken teeth with much efficiency.
Dental Implants: A metal root is embedded into the jaw bone and a crown is sealed on the top of it to fill the gap created by a broken tooth.
Conclusion
There’s nothing more hurtful than breaking a tooth and putting your smile and eating habits at stake for a lifetime. The type of injury you have sustained decides which kind of dental treatment you will be provided with. It is generally not required to address a cracked tooth urgently; however, you will have to run to a dentist if it’s a fracture or complete breakage. Proper dental care not only restores your teeth but also saves you from constant pain and infections.