When we think about dental restorations, chances are we first think about cavities, which are typically fixed simply and straightforwardly with a filling. At the more serious end of the spectrum is tooth decay, which requires more complex treatments and, in severe cases, can result in tooth loss. Tooth decay is most commonly associated with poor day-to-day oral hygiene. However, it can also stem from chipped or broken teeth being left untreated.
Today, we're looking at why teeth break, the risks of neglecting a broken tooth, and the restoration process.
Why Do Teeth Break?
A common cause of chipped or broken teeth is trauma to the mouth, such as a fall or sports injury. However, there is a variety of other causes of tooth breakage:
- Biting down on hard objects, such as hard candy, or olive pits
- Decay from untreated cavities that weakens tooth structure
- Teeth grinding, or "bruxism"
- Age-related wear and tear
Risks of Tooth Breakage
Leaving a broken tooth untreated is extremely risky. First and foremost, the pain from a fractured tooth can interfere with normal activities like eating and speaking. Also, a chip or break makes a tooth more susceptible to decay and infection, which can spread to the gums, other teeth, and even the jawbone, resulting in more invasive and costly dental treatments.
For these reasons, it's vitally important to seek treatment promptly for a chipped or broken tooth.
Do You Need to Fix a Broken Tooth?
Treatment for chipped or broken teeth depends on the extent of the damage. If damage is minor, a dentist may simply smooth out any rough edges or fill in small chips. Dental bonding, in which a resin material is applied to the damaged tooth, may also be used. For more significant damage, a root canal may be required to address damage to the tooth's pulp, with a crown or dental veneer then used to restore form and function.
As always, consult with a dentist to determine the course of treatment that's right for you.
Broken Tooth Restoration in Missoula, MT
If you're in Missoula and looking for a qualified dentist to fix a broken tooth, contact dentist Dr. Jonathan Nelson and the team at Nelson Dentistry` to schedule a consultation appointment.