What Are Your Options for Treating A Cracked Tooth?

If You’ve Suffered an Accident, What Are Your Options for Treating A Cracked Tooth?

Just about everyone will probably crack a tooth at some point in their lives.  All it takes is an unlucky slip and fall, or a hit to the face, and suddenly your smile isn’t quite as bright as it used to be.  Fortunately, you’ve got numerous options for treating a cracked tooth at your local Cedar Park dentist!

What to Do If You Have A Cracked Tooth

If a tooth gets cracked, you’ll of course want to schedule an appointment with a Cedar Park dentist at your first opportunity – but you could be potentially looking at a few days’ wait for an appointment.  So, a little self-care is called for.

First, if at all possible, gather up and save any missing pieces of the tooth.  It isn’t always possible to reassemble the tooth, but it gives the dentist more to work with.  These should be kept in a sealable baggie, like a Zip-Loc, and stored in the freezer until you’re ready to see your dentist.

If you’re in pain, you are free to use any over-the-counter pain medications to remain comfortable.  Also, we strongly recommend rinsing your mouth with mouthwash frequently.  This will sting a bit, but it greatly reduces the chances that your broken tooth will become infected.  You don’t want an infection.

How Cedar Park Dentists Can Treat A Cracked Tooth

Depending on the situation, there are three basic options for treating a cracked tooth:

1. Bonding

In some cases, it is possible for the dentist to essentially glue your tooth back together.  This is particularly likely if there’s a single relatively large chunk of tooth missing.  However, if the crack is deep, or the tooth is shattered, this won’t be an option.

2. A Porcelain Veneer

In the case of minor cracks or chips, a veneer is often a good option.  Veneers are made of porcelain and are attached directly to your teeth – replacing the front-facing surface.  In this way, it can simply cover up the damage that was done.

3. Dental Crowns

Finally, in more serious situations – or for cases where it’s a rear tooth that’s cracked – the dentist may decide to use a crown to cap off the tooth.  Crowns are long-lasting and can be made from materials that are virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

If you’ve suffered a cracked tooth, don’t wait to see a dentist!  Contact Reveal Dental in Cedar Park to schedule an appointment.