Chipping or breaking a tooth can be alarming, and it can put a very quick stop to the plans you had for the day. In the past, you would need to make time for several dental appointments in order to assess the injury, get a temporary restoration, and have a permanent crown fixed in place to repair the injury. Today, your team at Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, can help restore your pearly white in as little as one appointment with the help of CEREC technology.
What To Do If You Break A Tooth
Hurting one of your pearly whites can be stressful, and it’s important to know what to do in this situation to avoid further harm. If you have chipped a tooth, avoid touching the area and apply a cold compress. If the structure has a larger fracture, apply gauze to staunch any bleeding and take pain reducers as needed. Call your dentist to schedule an appointment as soon as possible so the area can be examined. We understand that this can be a stressful situation but do your best to remain calm and explain the situation to your team.
The Process Of Getting Your Crown
When you come in for your appointment, the dentist will examine the area and assess the injury. In many cases, a dental crown can help repair your tooth if it has been chipped or cracked. If a dental crown is right for your situation, digital images and measurements will be taken of the area. These will then be sent to the onsite milling machine to create your restoration. CEREC crowns are made of ceramic and can last for many years when properly maintained. When it is ready, your dentist will check that it fits correctly and then secure it in place. After this, you can get back to your day and worry less about your smile.
If The Injury Cannot Be Repaired
Unfortunately, if the damage is more severe, it may be better to remove the structure and replace it with a prosthetic. For instance, if a large amount of your tooth was broken off, a dental cap may not be enough to protect the area. Instead, it will be carefully removed and an option such as a dental bridge or implant can be added in its place. Your dentist will work with you to determine the best prosthetic option for your needs.
Questions About This Treatment? Ask Our Team!
If you have injured, chipped, or cracked your tooth, we could help repair it in just one appointment and you can get back to your day! To learn more about this service, call Smith Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, today at 903-455-5750.