Enamel, a thin outer covering of the teeth, is known as the most mineralized tissue in the body. It is hard and does not easily deteriorate. There are instances, however, that it fails to preserve the integrity of the tooth, causing it to break. This is especially true when it is subject to great forces such as when a person falls or receives a blow to the face. The same is true when a person bites down on hard food.
Fortunately, a broken or chipped tooth can be treated by your dentist. They offer several other treatments to solve this problem, so better ask what’s best for you.
What to do when your teeth are broken
Immediate action is the key to salvaging a broken or chipped tooth. When you delay seeing your dentist, you’re exposing yourself to further tooth damage, infection, or even losing your tooth at once.
When urgent treatment is not possible, consider rinsing your mouth with salt water. When in pain, take a pain reliever. If you need to eat, avoid hard food and don’t chew or bite down on the damaged tooth. Most importantly, head to the nearest dental clinic as soon as possible.
What is the solution to a damaged tooth?
Jordan River Dental noted that many clinics are offering tooth repair in South Jordan. They provide several procedures to treat damaged tooth, so it’s best to visit them as soon as possible. Filling, for instance, is used for cases wherein only a small piece of the enamel is chipped off the tooth.
Bonding is another common procedure. It’s done when a front tooth or any visible teeth is broken. The treatment uses a composite resin that mimics the natural color and texture of the tooth. The surface of the damaged tooth is etched before the resin is attached. The dentist will then shape the material to achieve the natural form of the tooth. Lastly, it will be exposed to ultraviolet light to harden the resin.
How about tooth decay and abscessed tooth?
In the case of damage due to tooth decay, the treatment may include other procedures other than a filling. Crowns, for instance, are used to treat teeth that have lost most of their structure. In the case of an abscessed tooth, root canal treatment is the usual solution. In worse cases, extraction is necessary.
Whatever your case is, it pays to get immediate help from your dentist. Remember to get checkup or treatment as soon as possible to salvage your tooth.