A Cracked Tooth Can Be Repaired by Different Means

While it is rare, there are times when an accidental fall or hard blow to the face can cause significant damage to one of your teeth. This is even more likely to happen if you participate in contact sports without wearing a quality mouthguard. The severity of the damage will strongly influence the first-aid, treatment, and restoration options your dentist, Dr. Gary Wegmann, recommends.

If you have blood or other debris in your mouth, you can gently rinse it away with lukewarm saltwater. This will clear the area and soothe traumatized oral tissues.

If the damage is limited the tooth enamel, Dr. Gary Wegmann might only need to restore the tooth with a dental crown. If you feel a sharp or persistent pain in the cracked tooth, it most likely means that the damage extends into the pulp or root of the tooth. In a case like this, Dr. Gary Wegmann will likely need to perform a root canal. This will replace the damaged internal structures with of the tooth and form an abutment to later anchor a crown in place.

If the crack has severely damaged the root or the structure of the tooth’s socket, Dr. Gary Wegmann might need to completely extract the tooth. Once your gums have healed, Dr. Gary Wegmann can help you decide if you’d like to restore the tooth with a dental bridge or dental implant.

If you have cracked or otherwise damaged tooth in Chicago, Illinois, you should not delay in calling 312.551.0500 to seek treatment at The Chicago Family Dental Center.