Can a Broken Tooth Be Fixed? Restorative Dentistry Options
When a tooth breaks, it often brings pain, sensitivity, and a concern about what to do next. The good news? Restorative dentistry offers a wide range of treatment options depending on the severity of the break.
At Riley Dental in Haslet, TX, we help patients understand how to fix a broken tooth to restore both their function and appearance. If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity or other issues due to a break, call to book a consultation with Dr. Luke Riley and our team.
What is restorative dentistry, and how does it help?
So, what is restorative dentistry? This form of dentistry focuses on repairing or replacing damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. The goal is to recover the function, strength, and appearance of your smile while preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible.
Restorative treatments range from simple dental crowns to more complex procedures, like bridges and implants. The right procedures depend on the extent of the damage and your overall oral health.
Treatment options for how to fix a broken tooth
Want to know how to fix a broken tooth? Here are the most common dental restoration options:
- Dental crowns: If the break is significant or affects the structure of a tooth, a crown may be needed. A crown covers the top visible portion of the tooth. Dental crowns are custom-made to match your surrounding teeth and are incredibly durable.
- Root canal therapy: If the break extends down into the pulp of a tooth, root canal therapy may be needed to remove the damaged tissue and prevent complications, like infection. After the root canal, a crown is placed to protect the area.
- Dental implants: If a tooth is too broken to save, it may need to be extracted. An implant replaces a missing tooth by placing a titanium post into the jawbone and attaching a custom dental crown on top.
- Dental bridges: A bridge can replace a missing tooth by anchoring artificial teeth to the healthy teeth on either side. This is a good option if you're not a candidate for implants or prefer a less invasive approach.
- Dentures: If multiple teeth are missing, dentures may be recommended. Full or partial dentures can restore your ability to eat and speak comfortably.
- Full-mouth reconstruction: For patients with multiple broken, damaged, or missing teeth, this treatment combines several procedures to restore function and aesthetics. This may include crowns, implants, bridges, and other procedures tailored to your needs.
During your consultation at Riley Dental in Haslet, TX, our team will evaluate the damage and recommend the dental restoration for your situation.
Why prompt treatment matters
It's important to address a broken tooth as soon as possible. Even if the break doesn't hurt at first, leaving it untreated can lead to:
- Increased risk of infection if bacteria enter the tooth
- Further cracking or damage to the tooth
- Tooth sensitivity that worsens over time
- Difficulty eating or speaking
- The need for more extensive and expensive treatment later
Learn more about your dental restoration options
If you're dealing with a broken tooth or experiencing tooth sensitivity, Riley Dental in Haslet, TX is here to help. Do you have questions such as, "What is restorative dentistry?" or want to speak with a professional? We specialize in dental crowns, dental implants, and other options to repair damage and restore your smile. Call for a consultation with Dr. Luke Riley or a member of our team and get the care you need.