Even though tooth enamel is very hard, there are still things that can cause chips and fractures. While some fractures are caused by blows to the face or hard falls, there can also be other mundane causes. It’s not uncommon for a fracture or large chip to occur because of teeth grinding on a regular basis.
The size, depth and severity of the fracture will greatly influence the treatment and restoration options your dentist, Dr. Josh Walker, recommends.
If the fracture was caused by a traumatic event and you have blood or debris in your mouth, you can gently rinse your mouth with lukewarm saltwater.
If you feel a sharp or persistent pain in the fractured tooth, it most likely means that the damage has compromised the internal structures of the tooth. If this is the case, Dr. Josh Walker will likely need to perform a root canal to replace the damaged structures and form the abutment needed to anchor a dental crown.
Even if the fracture is limited to just the enamel layer, Dr. Josh Walker will still need to repair it before tooth decay has a chance to set in. In some cases, he might be able to repair it with a basic filling. This treatment might also be accompanied by a fluoride treatment to help you strengthen the remaining enamel.
If you have a fractured or badly chipped tooth in Manhattan, Kansas, you need to call Family & Implant Dentistry at 785-539-5949 to schedule an appointment.