Whether on the court or at the food court, our teeth can sometimes become damaged due to an accident or even biting down on a very hard piece of food. When damage occurs, how do we repair the teeth? With cosmetic and restorative treatments, we can return the tooth to full function and health, protecting it from serious complications.
How Do We Repair Teeth?
- True or False: Damaged teeth can lead to decay or infection.
- True or False: Bonding can repair minor damage.
- True or False: A crown may be used for serious breaks or fractures.
- True or False: We can create restorations in a single visit.
Answer Key
- True. Our teeth are coated in a layer of enamel that protects them from bacteria. When a tooth is damaged, bacteria can then bypass the enamel, reaching the inner layers of dentin and causing decay and/or infection. Patients then experience minor to serious discomfort, including tooth sensitivity and toothaches.
- True. For minor chips, we can repair the tooth in a single visit with dental bonding. We use the same material employed for our white fillings. Multiple layers of composite resin are added to the tooth and sculpted as the material cures under a light. We then polish the tooth for a lifelike appearance.
- True. If a tooth is broken or fractured, we can repair it with a crown. The crown act as a cap, fitting over the entire visible portion of the tooth. We use ceramic to ensure the restoration looks natural and blends with the smile.
- True. Using CEREC technology, we can actually take digital impressions, create the crown, and place it all in one visit.
Learn more with Dr. Brent Engelberg, an Arlington Heights IL dentist. Schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at (847) 230-9703.