Options For A Broken Tooth: Which Repair Is Best For You?
It can be both painful and frustrating to break a tooth. It can not only hurt you physically, but the fear of having it repaired may also be painful for many people. The first inclination can often be to rush to the emergency department or urgent care center to have it checked. As long as the broken tooth was not a result of another serious injury, you do not have to have it checked immediately after it happens. More than likely, any emergency facility will only refer you to a dentist as soon as you can get an appointment.
You need to consider how you want to have the tooth repaired, as there are several options. Your options may be limited, depending on how severely the tooth is broken. In general, you can have it pulled and not replaced with anything. This is a good option if it is not a tooth in the front that can be seen. You can also get a bridge, a crown, or an implant. Here are some things to think about when making your choice:
Which Option is Best?
There is no one great option for everyone. It will largely depend on how badly the tooth is broken, the location of the tooth, and how much money you want to invest. If the tooth is not terribly broken into the gum line, a crown would be a great option. It is the least expensive option, with the exception of an extraction.
Should You Choose a Bridge or Implant?
You may also opt for a bridge or an implant. These options come into play if your broken tooth cannot be saved. Your dentist will pull the damaged tooth, and then replace it with your choice of orthodontia. A bridge is a specialized set of teeth that is attached to the two teeth on either side of the now-pulled broken tooth. It is permanently placed and can be treated much like any other tooth. You may have to have the bridge replaced after several years.
An implant is a surgical procedure where a screw is placed into your jawbone. On the other end of the screw is a permanent tooth that will be in place of the broken tooth. Implants are the most expensive of these options, due to the amount of surgical intervention required.
Is a Dental Crown the Best Option?
Dental crowns are the best option as long as the tooth and roots are still healthy enough to accept the orthodontia. Speak with your dentist to see if a crown will work for your circumstances, as it is the least invasive and least expensive.