Have you ever chipped or cracked a tooth? It can be a painful, frustrating experience, leaving you feeling helpless and unsure of what comes next. You may also have many questions about the repair process: What methods are available for fixing it? How much will it cost? Is there any pain involved in the procedure itself? Don’t worry – these questions have answers! In this blog post, we’ll review everything you need to know about cracked tooth repair so you can smile confidently as soon as possible.
Overview of Cracked Tooth
First, let’s define what a cracked tooth is. A cracked tooth is a dental condition that occurs when a natural tooth is cracked, split, or fractured. Cracks can occur in different tooth sections – from the tooth surface (tooth enamel) to the root beneath the gum line. A few kinds of cracks can occur, ranging from minor hairline cracks to more severe ones, like a broken tooth or structurally compromising cracks. The severity of the crack can often lead to determining the necessary treatment.
Several factors can lead to chipped or broken teeth, such as chewing on hard objects, teeth grinding, a misaligned bite, and pressure from tooth decay. Age also plays a role in developing tooth fractures, as our teeth become more brittle. Different symptoms result from different types of cracks. Still, in most cases, patients experience tooth sensitivity, sharp pain when biting or chewing, or pain when the tooth is exposed to severely hot or cold temperatures. These symptoms can be felt consistently or occasionally, depending on the severity of the crack.
If you experience any of the above symptoms, consult a dentist. Diagnosis of a cracked tooth can be difficult as symptoms often mimic other dental problems. Your dental consultant will inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth thoroughly to identify the location of the crack. In severe cases where the crack extends into the root of your tooth, they may recommend an X-ray or an Endodontist appointment. Proper diagnosis is essential to determining the correct treatment.
Types of Repairs for Cracked Teeth
In this section, we will discuss the various types of repairs for cracked teeth and which one you need.
Dental bonding
Dental bonding is one of the common repair methods for broken or chipped teeth. In this process, a tooth-coloured composite resin material is applied to the cracked part of the tooth, which is then hardened and polished to improve the tooth’s appearance. This method is quick, affordable, and effective if the crack is mild.
Veneers
If the crack is too large or affects the front teeth, veneers may be better than bonding. Veneers are lean, custom-made shells that cover the front of the teeth. They are usually manufactured from porcelain or resin composite materials and can last up to 15 years with proper care. Veneers may be more expensive than bonding, but they offer a more natural-looking solution to cracked teeth.
Crowns
Crowns are usually used for teeth with extensive damage from cracks, decay, or large fillings. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is adjusted over the damaged tooth and cemented into place. It provides the necessary support and protection for the tooth and can last up to 15 years or more with proper care. Crowns are generally more expensive than veneers or bonding, but they are a more durable solution.
Root canal treatment
If the crack extends to the root of the tooth root, root canal therapy may be necessary. This involves removing the tooth’s damaged pulp, cleaning and shaping the root canals, and filling them with a biocompatible material. A crown is then adjusted over the tooth to protect it from further damage. Root canal treatment is usually done in cases where the tooth is in danger of being lost and is often the last resort to save the tooth.
Extraction
In rare cases where the crack is too severe or the damage too extensive to repair, extraction may be the only option. This involves removing the damaged tooth completely and replacing it with a dental implant, dental bridge, or partial denture. There are better solutions than this, as it can cause other dental problems such as shifting teeth, jawbone deterioration, and difficulty eating.
Cost Considerations for Cracked Tooth Repairs
In this post, we’ll discuss the cost considerations for chipped or broken teeth repairs and provide tips on how to save money.
Types of cracked tooth repairs
There are different types of broken or chipped tooth repairs, and the cost will depend on the type of repair required. Minor cracks may only require dental bonding, a relatively inexpensive treatment. However, more severe cracks may require a root canal or crown, which can be more expensive. The cost of a root canal and dental crown can differ depending on the location and condition of the tooth.
Insurance coverage
If you have dental insurance, checking if your plan covers cracked tooth repairs is important. Most insurance plans cover at least a section of the cost, but the amount may vary. It’s also important to check for any limitations or exclusions on your plan. For example, some plans may not cover cosmetic treatments, or they may only cover repairs for specific teeth.
Payment options
Many dental clinics have payment plans to help make cracked tooth repair costs more manageable. Payment plans usually allow you to pay off the cost of treatment over some time, while financing options may offer low or no interest rates for a certain timeframe. Discussing these options with your dental office and ensuring you understand their terms and conditions is important.
Prevention tips
Preventing a cracked tooth in the first place can be a good way to save money on repairs. Avoiding hard foods or chewing on ice, not using your teeth as tools, and wearing a mouthguard during sports can all help prevent cracked teeth. Regular dental check-ups can also help catch cracks before they become more severe and expensive.
Seeking multiple opinions
If you’re concerned about the cost of cracked tooth repairs, it’s a good idea to seek multiple opinions from different dental offices. This can help you understand the different treatment options and ensure you get the best care for your budget. However, it’s important to ensure you choose a reputable and qualified dentist.
Pain Management During a Crack Tooth Repair Procedure
Local anaesthetics
Local anaesthetics are the most commonly used pain management technique during dental procedures. These medications are administered directly into the area where the work will be done to numb the nerves in the surrounding area. The numbness can last for hours after the procedure, which helps to reduce discomfort. In most cases, the anaesthetic is administered by injection, but in some cases, it can be applied topically. Your dentist will determine which technique is best for you.
Pre-medication
If you experience high anxiety levels or have a documented phobia of dental procedures, your dentist may consider prescribing pre-medication medication. Pre-medication medications can help to reduce anxiety, which can, in turn, reduce the sensation of pain during the procedure. Some medications used for premedication include anti-anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines.
Nitrous oxide
Nitrous oxide is a mix of nitrogen and oxygen gases that can help a patient relax during a dental procedure. Also known as “laughing gas,” nitrous oxide, when inhaled, helps to reduce anxiety and pain sensation. Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective chemical that can be used for most dental procedures, including crack tooth repair.
Ice packs
After the treatment, applying a cold compress to the affected area can help to lessen inflammation and swelling. This can also help reduce any pain or discomfort you might feel. Ice packs should be used for 20 minutes, with a break of at least 20 minutes. Remember, never place ice directly on the skin, which can cause tissue damage.
Self-care
Finally, remember to take good care of yourself to aid healing. Avoiding hard or crunchy foods that may aggravate the affected area is important. Also, avoid extreme temperatures by eating or drinking warm foods and beverages instead of hot or cold ones. Finally, follow your dentist’s post-procedure instructions carefully, which may include taking pain medications, if necessary.
Conclusion
Cracked tooth repair is an important issue, and our team of experts is here to fix a cracked tooth. We strive to ensure that your cracked tooth gets the best treatment possible. Whether you need help during a dental emergency, complete restoration of a tooth, missing teeth, or just simple repair, our team of dental professionals can help ease the process for you. We recognise that this situation can cause serious issues for people, and we want to ensure that everyone gets quick and quality care. If you have any additional questions about cracked tooth repair, don’t hesitate to call us at (08) 7078 8263, and we’ll be more than happy to find out what’s best for you. No matter your circumstances, let us help diagnose the problem and put a remedy to fix it before it worsens. So take time today, contact us, and get your smile back!
References
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/repairing-a-chipped-or-broken-tooth
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chipped-broken-or-cracked-tooth/
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