No one wants to have to deal with a broken or damaged tooth, but life happens. Fortunately, there are many options at your disposal when you have to deal with life's obstacles. Ultimately, which repair options you choose all depends on the severity of the damage that has been done. Here are three options that you have:
Dental Bonding
If the tooth damage that you have endured is minor, for example a chip of the tooth, then it can likely be repaired with dental bonding. Usually, dental bonding is reserved for when the majority of your tooth is still in one piece and when your tooth's structural integrity has not been impaired in any way.
How is dental bonding applied? Well, the dentist will first apply a resin to the tooth that is the same color as your tooth's current enamel. He or she will then work with the resin so that it blends in with the rest of the tooth and looks just like the rest of the teeth. A UV light will then be used to harden the resin. Finally, he or she will smooth the surface and, if necessary, trim off any extra resin.
Dental Crowns
If part of your tooth has broken off, however, dental bonding is likely not a practical option. Instead, your dentist may recommend a dental crown, which is placed over your existing tooth. So, how does this process work? First, your tooth has to be prepared for a crown. This consists of having your tooth filed down and possibly having filling material applied to ensure your tooth can adequately support the dental crown. Then, an impression is made of the mouth so that a custom-made crown can be made to ensure that the crown fits appropriately. There are different types of crowns, but the most popular are ceramic, porcelain, metal and porcelain-fused to metal. Depending on the dentist, the crown may be made in the office or the impression may be sent to an independent laboratory where the crown will be made. When the crown is ready, a special adhesive is used to secure the crown in place.
Dental Implants
When dental bonding and dental crowns aren't feasible options, you may need to consider alternatives. In some cases, there may be no saving your tooth. Unfortunately, it isn't a good idea to leave a gap, so a dental implant should be considered. Dental implants consist of an artificial tooth on the exterior (sort of like a dental crown) and a small titanium post in the jawbone. A dentist will need to confirm that your jawbone is strong enough for this procedure. Once the titanium post is placed, a temporary tooth option can be worn until the area has fully healed and the permanent implant can be attached.
For more information and options, talk with a dentist, such as those at NYC Center for Dental Implants.
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