Dental fillings are one of the most common types of restorative services offered by dentists. They are used for a variety of purposes, including to repair a cracked tooth. This review discusses the use of dental fillings to repair a cracked tooth and when a filling is the most appropriate solution.
A cracked tooth can be repaired in a variety of ways. By understanding more about the variety of treatment options that are available, you can make an informed decision as to whether a filling or an alternative restorative solution is the right option for you according to your treatment goals and preferences.
A dental filling is a type of dental restoration that repairs minor forms of damage on teeth. There are different types of dental fillings, which include amalgam and ceramic which are both tooth-colored materials; metal alloy and gold fillings are far less common but may be an option depending on the location of the tooth. A dental filling is minimally invasive and performed in the comfort of the dentist’s office. The procedure typically takes less than an hour, and the patient can return home on the same visit with essentially no recovery time.
A dental filling can repair a cracked tooth, particularly if the crack is not severe and does not affect the tooth’s root. In this case, a dental filling is used to restore the appearance of the tooth by applying a tooth-colored filling material where there is a crack. The filling material is then hardened with a special curing light for a long-term hold.
The primary use for dental fillings is for treating a dental cavity, specifically a cavity that is minor. In essence, a dental filling may be an option anytime there is a minor amount of enamel that is damaged, eroded, or chipped and the patient desires a simple treatment solution that is minimally invasive.
If a tooth is cracked beyond what a dental filling can repair, then the dentist may recommend dental bonding or a dental crown. For severe chips or severe tooth decay, root canal therapy followed by the placement of a dental crown may be recommended. In worst-case scenarios, tooth extraction may be the only viable option. In this case, the dentist can replace the missing tooth with either a dental bridge (a crown attached to adjacent teeth), a partial removable denture, or an implant-supported crown.
A dental filling should last for years without any complications. It is vulnerable to stains or damage, so having good oral hygiene in place to protect the filling is strongly encouraged. It is also encouraged to visit the dentist every four to six months for a routine cleaning procedure and dental check-up; this helps remove any plaque and tartar that has accumulated. With proper care, a dental filling should last for more than five years, and it is not uncommon for fillings to last for beyond a decade.
As mentioned, there are multiple types of dental fillings, including amalgam, ceramic, metal alloy, and gold. Each option offers advantages and potential drawbacks. For example, a ceramic crown offers a tooth-colored appearance but is not as durable as a metal alloy or gold crown. The best type of dental filling for your cracked tooth depends on the location of the tooth and the patient’s aesthetic preference. For example, most patients desire either a ceramic (tooth-colored) crown for more visible teeth.
It is strongly encouraged to seek treatment for all cracked teeth as soon as conveniently possible; emergency dental care may be necessary for severe cracks that cause a high level of discomfort. Otherwise, symptoms can worsen and put the long-term health of the tooth in jeopardy.
Here at our dental practice, we offer dental fillings and alternative treatments to treat cracked teeth, chips, cavities, and more. If you are having concerns with one or more of your teeth, then call us today to schedule a visit. We can assess the severity of your tooth damage and help you put together an appropriate treatment plan.
Request an appointment here: https://www.texasstarsmiles.com or call Texas Star Smiles & Fastbraces at (254) 237-1342 for an appointment in our Killeen office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Composite Fillings in Killeen, TX.
The lifespan of a dental filling is limited. Due to normal wear and tear, a replacement may be necessary. When a filling deteriorates or comes loose, your tooth loses the protection that it has against injury and decay and will be more vulnerable to dangerous bacteria. To avoid more dental issues in the future, you…
If you have ever gotten a cavity, you most likely had it filled with a dental filling. Dental fillings are used to fill the space left by a cavity.The recommended time for a dental filling is when your dentist detects the beginnings of tooth decay and not when you notice a hole in your tooth.…
When your dentist finishes installing your dental filling, the anesthesia will still be working even by the time you arrive home. Your dentist knows that you will feel the discomfort kicking in eventually. With proper aftercare, you can recover from your dental filling procedure without issue. You can also find out if you need to…
Many people have had a composite filling to repair cavities. If you have never had one, it means you take good care of your teeth. However, the time will likely come when you need this restorative treatment. It is helpful to know what to expect. With some conditions, you may first need a temporary filling…
Considering Invisalign®? Modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of many types of teeth straightening options. Clear aligners are offered by a number of brands, with Invisalign® being the most popular. However, individuals who are considering teeth straightening may also consider braces, which are known to be the standard method for correcting crooked teeth, crowded…
Patients who feel self-conscious about their smiles might want to consider getting clear aligners. The dentist can help a patient decide if they are a candidate for the treatment plan. After having the aligners for a few months, patients can once more enjoy having straight teeth. Keep reading to learn more about who the right…