While tooth enamel is very hard, there are still things that can cause chips and fractures. While some fractures are caused by something as obvious as a blow to the face or a hard fall, there can also be other mundane causes. It’s not uncommon for a fracture or large chip to occur on a tooth as a result of grinding your teeth at night on a regular basis.
The size, depth, and severity of the fracture will greatly influence the treatment and restoration options Riverfront Dental LLC’s dentist recommends.
If the fracture was caused by a traumatic event, and you have blood or debris in your mouth from the accident, you can gently rinse your mouth clean with lukewarm salt water.
If you feel a sharp or persistent pain in the fractured tooth it most likely means that the damage has compromised the internal structures of the tooth. Your dentist at Riverfront Dental LLC will likely need to perform a root canal to replace the damaged structures and form the abutment needed to anchor a crown.
Even if the fracture is limited to just the enamel layer, Riverfront Dental LLC’s dentist will still need to repair it before tooth decay has a chance to set in. In some cases, they might be able to repair it with a basic filling. This might also be accompanied by a fluoride treatment or fluoride supplements to help strengthen the remaining enamel.
If you have a fractured or badly chipped tooth, you need to call Riverfront Dental LLC’s office in Salem, Oregon at 503.370.7651 to understand your treatment restoration options.