For the past two weeks, our blog topics have focused primarily on restorations, such as fillings, crowns, inlays, and onlays. We use these to restore the function of your smile and repair teeth that have become broken, cracked, chipped, or simply decayed. How does a damaged tooth impact your oral health? Why is seeking restoration so important?
Frequently Asked Questions About Damaged Teeth and Oral Health
Question: Does decay lead to an infection?
Answer: Without treatment, yes. When addressed in a timely manner, we can prevent infection by placing a filling or possibly a dental crown. However, without treatment a cavity continues to grow until bacteria can come into contact with the inner pulp. The infection will be very uncomfortable and unless addressed with a root canal, may mean the tooth will require extraction to prevent the infection from spreading to other teeth or into the jawbone.
Question: What happens if I chip or break a tooth?
Answer: Many chips are very minor, but sometimes a chipped or broken tooth may be serious enough to expose the inner dentin, the more sensitive tissue that compromises a majority of the tooth’s structure. With the protective layer of enamel damaged, bacteria can allow cavities to form.
Question: How do you fix a cracked tooth?
Answer: Often, a cracked tooth means performing a root canal procedure prior to placing a dental crown. This protects the tooth from infection.
Question: When should I see a dentist?
Answer: If you damage a tooth, see the dentist right away. If you have ignored the issue and now you often experience tooth sensitivity or a toothache, proceed immediately to the dentist before the issue can progress any further.
ABOUT YOUR VERNON HILLS, IL DENTIST:
Dr. Brent Engelberg and his highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including; Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at (847) 230-9703.