Have you every broken a tooth? If so, did you know what to do? Most people don’t know how to handle that situation properly. Although teeth are strong and can take a lot of force, they are not invulnerable. Habitual tooth grinding or decay can weaken the structure of teeth and leads to breakage. An unexpected blow to the mouth could happen at any time. It is important to know the right steps to take if a dental emergency occurs resulting in serious damage to one or more teeth.
What should I do if I break a tooth?
The first reactions to breaking a tooth are usually disbelief followed by panic and throbbing pain. At this point, you should take some important steps. Rinse your mouth out with warm water and salt to remove bacteria away from the traumatized area. Next, see your dentist immediately to control the risk of infection and prevent further damage. If you are in a pain, take an over the counter analgesic.
How are broken teeth repaired in Rancho Santa Fe or La Jolla?
The severity of damage will determine how your broken tooth gets repaired. For lesser damage like a chip, a tooth-colored dental filling or bonding may work well. An extra strong filling will reinforce the tooth with a layer of protection. With proper care, tooth-colored fillings can remain durable for up to six years.
Bonding is ideal for repairing minor flaws in the front teeth. It is made of a malleable composite resin that hardens and restores the appearance and form of the broken tooth. Dr. Weston Spencer will select the best shade of composite resin to complement the surrounding teeth, adding layers of resin.
Is a dental crown the best option for tooth repair?
In the most severe cases, a dental crown is the best solution. A tooth can be broken below the gum line into the roots or at the noticeable area above the gum. Extensive damage may require a crown to restore function and the appearance of a healthy tooth. Dr. Spencer uses the most conservative approach to repair his patient’s broken teeth.
What is a dental crown and how is it used to repair a damaged tooth?
Also known as a cap, a crown slips over the damaged tooth, adding a strong layer of protection and strength. A crown can be constructed of porcelain fused metal, gold, stainless steel, ceramic, or metal or some combination. Patients in Rancho Santa Fe or La Jolla typically choose the aesthetically pleasing, custom-crafted, tooth-colored dental crowns. These crowns are tailored to complement the color, size, shape and texture of the adjoining natural teeth. Once the custom tooth-colored crowns are in place, they are undetectable.
Dr. Spencer practices comprehensive and conservative dental care in providing patients in La Jolla with the highest quality treatments. Patients continue to return to our La Jolla practice for many years due to the consistent quality and comfort they receive from Dr. Spencer and experienced his staff.
If you or someone you know has broken a tooth in Rancho Santa Fe or La Jolla, Dr. Weston Spencer will determine the best way to restore its function and appearance with the most conservative method possible. Contact Dr. Spencer’s La Jolla or Rancho Santa Fe offices either online or by calling (858) 459-0077 to schedule a consultation.