Cracked tooth repair—can anything be done? Absolutely! There are many options if you have a cracked tooth, such as fillings, bonding, inlays/onlays, veneers, and dental crowns. But before exploring the various options for repairing a cracked tooth, let’s first explain when you may have a dental emergency on your hands.
Is my cracked tooth a dental emergency?
Cracked teeth may well constitute a dental emergency, but it depends on the extent of the damage, whether you are in pain or if there is copious bleeding that doesn’t seem to stop. If in doubt, you should speak to an emergency dentist for further advice.
Do you have a hairline crack? Tooth repair isn’t necessary.
Most people have hairline cracks in their tooth enamel, which aren’t even noticeable to the naked eye. They are known as craze lines, are typically painless and don’t require any treatment.
When is Treatment Necessary for a Cracked Tooth?
You should not worry about a cracked tooth if you feel no pain or don’t have any symptoms when biting and chewing food. Symptoms of more severe cases include consistent pain around the gum line, especially the tooth is loose.
Severe Crack: Tooth Repair Options
If your cracked tooth is severe and you are seen as a dental emergency, remember that the treatment you receive may not be complete. An emergency dentist generally tends to make sure you are pain-free and treats the tooth so that it is comfortable. Some treatments are carried out over several appointments and cannot be performed as a dental emergency even if your dentist wanted to.
Dental Fillings
When you have a cracked tooth, you may wonder if a dental filling can repair it. The short answer is yes, a dental filling can repair a cracked tooth. However, the long answer is a bit more complicated. Dental fillings are a great way to repair teeth damaged by decay. But, filling in dental imperfections such as cracks and chips can be tricky—although it can be done. As always, it depends on where the crack is and how severe.
Fillings are one of the simplest ways to repair cracked teeth, as they can be carried out on the spot. Your dentist can use several different materials, including tooth-coloured composite, to give you an excellent cosmetic result if you desire.
Bonding
Dental bonding is another cracked tooth repair option. This is where tooth-coloured composite resin is bonded over the tooth to hide the crack. It looks natural but is not suitable for teeth that are severely damaged.
Inlays/Onlays
Inlays and Onlays are larger than fillings but smaller than crowns. Onlays are more substantial and used on the back teeth’ pointed areas (cusps). These treatments require more than one visit and are not carried out by an emergency dentist.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is also performed over more than one appointment. They add support and strength to teeth, so a dental crown may be the best option if you have a severely cracked tooth.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are a cosmetic option and can disguise the appearance of a cracked tooth that isn’t too extensive. Veneers are made of thin pieces of porcelain that are bonded to the front of the teeth. They are an effective way to repair cracked teeth that aren’t too severe and can also be used to improve the appearance of the teeth. Again, the treatment is typically carried out over several visits.
The Takeaway
A cracked tooth repair doesn’t usually entail seeing an emergency dentist unless you are in pain or have extensive damage that is uncomfortable. If you are worried about a cracked tooth, get in touch with us by calling us on (02) 9630 9996 and schedule an appointment to find out how it can be repaired (or even if a repair is required).
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Colgate: Do you need emergency dental care?
https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/dental-emergencies-and-sports-safety/do-you-need-emergency-dental-care
Healthline: What are the lines on the front of my teeth?
https://www.healthline.com/health/craze-lines