When a tooth is serious fractured or damaged, it can lead to a whole host of dental health problems. Thankfully our Salt Lake City restorative dentistry center provides a whole host of treatment options that can rebuild damaged tooth structure and improve the appearance of your smile in the process.

We'd like to use this blog post to consider the problems related to fractured teeth as well as the various treatments that are available.

The Dangers of Fractured Teeth

Fractured teeth can cause you to experience serious pain and discomfort when biting, chewing, or having any food items/beverages that are hot or cold in temperature. In addition, a fractured tooth increases your risk of root canal infections and further damage done to the structure of a tooth.

As far as the aesthetics of your smile, a fractured tooth can lead to numerous problems, including severe self-consciousness. You may be reluctant to laugh and smile, even around people you have known for many years. If your job involves a lot of public speaking and interaction, your professional life may be impacted as well.

Dental Bonding

For minor fractures that are purely cosmetic in nature, dental bonding is a great solution to consider. Dental bonding involve the use of a tooth-colored dental resin that is painted onto the surface of a tooth. The resin is polished and blended with your tooth structure so it blends in seamlessly.

Porcelain Veneers

For more serious fractures that are still cosmetic in nature, a porcelain veneer may be recommended. Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin shells of dental ceramic that are adhered to the fronts of the teeth. It's almost like the tooth wears a mask. With a porcelain veneer in place, a tooth looks perfect and pristine, free from damage and other kinds of aesthetic flaws.

Dental Fillings

For fractures that affect tooth structure that post health problems, dental fillings are a good first option to consider. The filling will rebuild the damaged tooth structure, strengthening your tooth and allowing you to bite and chew again normally.

Inlays and Onlays

For more serious fractures that impact large sections of a tooth, inlays and onlays may be a better option. These restorations function much like dental fillings, though they are larger and able to replace the biting surfaces (cusps) of the teeth.

Dental Crowns

For major fractures that cannot be fixed using other restorations, dental crowns are an ideal last resort. Dental crowns are used to cap a tooth that is seriously compromised. The crown protects the remaining structure of the tooth, allowing patients to bite and chew normally without pain or discmfort.

What If a Tooth Cannot Be Restored?

Sometimes a tooth is so damaged that it can no longer be fixed using traditional restorations. In such cases, tooth extraction may be the only viable option. If you need to have a tooth removed, you can discuss replacement options with your dentist. This may include the use of a dental bridge or perhaps a crown supported by dental implants.

We can discuss these matters further during the consultation process.

Learn More About Restorative Treatments

For more information about fixing damaged teeth and improving your overall dental health, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. The team at our practice is here to help you have a healthy and beautiful smile.