Cracked or Broken Teeth
When someone has a cracked or broken tooth, the right treatment depends on the extent of the damage, location of the tooth, and overall oral health. Here are the most common options:
1. Dental Bonding or “Filling” (Compsite Resin)
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- Best for: Small chips, surface cracks, or cosmetic repairs.
- Process: Tooth-colored resin is applied, shaped, and hardened with a light.
- Pros: Quick, painless, and affordable.
- Cons: Not as strong or long-lasting as other options.
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- Best for: Front teeth with cosmetic cracks or chips.
- Process: A thin porcelain shell is bonded to the front surface of the tooth.
- Pros: Looks natural, improves appearance, durable.
- Cons: Requires some enamel removal; more costly than bonding.
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- Best for: Large cracks, broken cusps, or weakened teeth.
- Process: The damaged tooth is reshaped, and a custom crown is placed over it for protection and strength.
- Pros: Restores function and appearance; long-lasting.
- Cons: Requires more tooth preparation; higher cost.
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Root Canal Therapy (with Crown)
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- Best for: Cracks that extend into the pulp (nerve) causing pain or infection.
- Process: The infected pulp is removed, the tooth is sealed, and usually a crown is placed on top.
- Pros: Saves the natural tooth; eliminates pain and infection.
- Cons: More complex treatment; higher cost than fillings.
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- Best for: Severely fractured teeth that cannot be saved.
- Replacement options:
- Dental Implant: Strongest, most natural replacement.
- Dental Bridge: Fixed option using neighboring teeth.
- Partial Denture: Removable, less expensive option.
👉 In short:
- Minor damage → bonding or veneer
- Moderate damage → crown
- Severe damage (pulp involvement) → root canal + crown
- Beyond repair → extraction + replacement
