You have probably heard that dental enamel is the hardest substance in the body.
Does that mean if you crack your tooth it’s okay to disregard it? If it doesn’t hurt, the crack must be superficial, right?
Actually, no.
It’s vital to fix a fractured tooth without delay
Let’s discuss why.
The most important reason is that you can most likely save the tooth if you act fast.
Protect the tooth from decay
Regardless of the size of the crack, the tooth has been weakened.
This means it is more vulnerable to decay. If the underlying tooth matter starts decaying, it will eventually reach the root.
Avoid a root canal
Not only will it be painful, it could require a root canal. Root canals are more expensive than treatment to correct a crack in a tooth with no decay. When you get a root canal, you pay for the surgery and the crown.
There are other reasons to fix a cracked tooth that are less serious but still something to consider.
You may start chewing differently and experience head or jaw aches. The cracked tooth may damage adjacent or opposing teeth. This can happen slowly over time without your awareness. In a few months, you may discover damage to the enamel of another tooth.
Dr. Bill Dorfman, DDS – Century City Aesthetic Dentistry can fix it quickly and easily
Fixing a cracked tooth doesn’t take a long time. Schedule an appointment and we may be able to fix your cracked tooth in one dental visit.
At Dr. Bill Dorfman, DDS – Century City Aesthetic Dentistry, we accommodate your schedule. If necessary, we stay open later on normal business days. We also take weekend appointments for emergencies.
Is a cracked tooth an emergency? It’s not as pressing as a knocked-out tooth, but you need to have it fixed as soon as possible.
Have you been living with a cracked tooth for a while now? Schedule an appointment and we will correct it for you.
How do you fix a cracked tooth?
It depends on the size of the crack and the extent of the weakening.
For a small crack in an otherwise healthy tooth, your dentist may recommend dental bonding or filling. Modern fillings use a tooth-colored composite resin. A filling will reinforce the tooth and protect it from further damage.
If the tooth has decay or a large piece broke off, your dentist may recommend a dental cap or crown. For this restoration, the dentist grinds away part of the remaining tooth to prepare it for a tooth-shaped crown. The crown is made to blend seamlessly with your other teeth. As with the filling, it will strengthen and protect against decay.
Contact Dr. Bill Dorfman, DDS – Century City Aesthetic Dentistry:
310-277-5678
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
2080 Century Park E Ste 1601
Los Angeles, California
90067