How Do You Fix A Cracked Tooth?

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Occasionally, our teeth can become damaged. When a crack appears, treatment is necessary to avoid complications, such as decay or infection. But how do we fix a cracked tooth? Often, we can accomplish this using a lifelike dental restoration.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fixing Cracked Teeth

Question: How do I know if my tooth is cracked?

Answer: In some cases, the damage will be obvious. However, in other situations you may not notice the miniscule hairline fractures, which can be practically invisible to the naked eye. If an injury occurs to your mouth, you may consider seeing a dentist to make sure there is no damage you can’t see. You may also watch for tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures or a persistent toothache, as these could be signs that decay is forming as a result of your injured tooth.

Question: What happens if I don’t seek treatment?

Answer: Without treatment, bacteria can reach the inner tooth structure due to the cracks. Soon, a cavity can form or possibly even a dental infection. Patients can experience serious discomfort and a greater risk of tooth loss.

Question: Will I need an inlay or onlay?

Answer: For some cracks, we may recommend a restoration that targets a specific area of the tooth. An inlay fits between the cusps on top of the teeth. An onlay fits over the cusps of the top of the teeth. Both are made from ceramic, offering strong and lifelike restoration.

Question: How does a crown fixed a fractured tooth?

Answer: A dental crown fits over the entirety of your tooth’s visible portion. We can use them, along with root canal therapy, to repair damage or complications that arise due to a fractured tooth.

Gateway Dental Group Can Repair Your Cracked Tooth

At Gateway Dental Group, we can employ cosmetic and restorative procedures to repair damaged teeth. Our practice is proud to provide comprehensive cosmetic, restorative, and preventive care, so we can help you enjoy your best, healthiest smile. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Burds and his team at Gateway Dental Group, call our office today at (515) 244-9565. Located in Des Moines, IA, we proudly welcome patients from the Des Moines area, and surrounding communities.