Wondering what a general dentist suggests for a damaged tooth? Read on to learn more. Damage to teeth can result from decay, accidents, medications, and various health conditions. Repairing a tooth is crucial for maintaining good oral and overall health.
When a patient visits the dental office for a damaged tooth, their general dentist will evaluate their situation and recommend the most suitable treatment option. The dental restoration options suggested by the dentist will aim to repair the tooth as well as restore its appearance. The following are some of the treatment options a general dentist may recommend:
Dental veneers are popular and permanent solutions to address tooth imperfections. General dentists can customize these thin porcelain or composite shells to match the color of the surrounding natural teeth. Veneers are typically applied to the front teeth, giving stained and broken teeth a fresh, new appearance.
Chewing on or biting into hard substances can cause superficial cracks or chips on teeth. In such cases, a general dentist may recommend dental bonding. This restoration uses composite resin, which matches the color of natural teeth, to repair minor damage.
A root canal may be necessary when a tooth has a deep crack that reaches the pulp. Pain while eating or drinking hot or cold substances can indicate the severity of the crack. During a root canal, the affected tooth's pulp will be removed, then the inside of the tooth will be cleaned and disinfected, and finally, it will be filled with gutta-percha. A dental crown often follows to provide support and protection to the treated tooth.
The chewing surfaces of teeth can also suffer from damage, leading to cracked or broken cusps. Though such damage may not cause pain, the tooth's protection is compromised. In this case, a general dentist can use a dental crown or cap to cover the damaged chewing surface, protecting the tooth and restoring its appearance. This process involves shaving off a part of the healthy tooth structure to accommodate the crown, taking an impression of the tooth, and cementing the custom-fit crown in place.
When a crack extends below the gum line, the tooth will typically need to be extracted, as there is no way to treat the crack in the dental roots. Extraction is necessary to prevent more complicated problems. The dental professional will drill implant holes into the patient's jawbone and insert titanium rods. After osseointegration occurs over four to six months, the abutment and dental crowns can be connected.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Santa Monica, CA
The unexpected reality of tooth damage can be distressing and debilitating due to the associated pain. Prompt treatment can prevent the damage from worsening, and the appropriate restoration can alleviate pain quickly. You should schedule a consultation if you are thinking about restoring your damaged teeth. Whether your teeth are broken or you just do not like how they look, a general dentist can recommend many solutions that may help you regain your dental health in no time.
Request an appointment or call Pacific View Smile Center at 310-304-1854 for an appointment in our Santa Monica office.
Preventive dental care is the cornerstone to maintaining overall oral health, and a general dentist plays an essential role in ensuring that individuals adopt effective habits catered to their specific needs. Preventive dental care involves measures aimed at stopping oral health problems before they occur, as well as addressing early signs of issues before they…
A general dentist can screen for a variety of oral health concerns, including oral cancer. Catching these issues and diseases early makes for easier, less invasive, and often more effective treatment. Reading up on when and why oral cancer screenings are important can give you an idea of whether to ask for one at your…
Regular visits to a general dentist are crucial for maintaining oral health and preventing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. These appointments also give the dentist a chance to catch early signs of problems before they become more serious. Understanding how often to schedule these visits is key to maintaining long-term dental health.Most…
Preventive dental care is the cornerstone to maintaining overall oral health, and a general dentist plays an essential role in ensuring that individuals adopt effective habits catered to their specific needs. Preventive dental care involves measures aimed at stopping oral health problems before they occur, as well as addressing early signs of issues before they…
When a single person seeks dental care, they typically go for whoever provides the services they need. However, many find family dentists are the one-stop location for multiple family members needing dental treatment. Here are several benefits to seeking professional care from a family dentist.Family dentists receive the same schooling as general dentists. However, they…