How Can Fillings Fix Cracked Teeth
Cracked teeth are more common than you might think. No matter the cause, whether an accident, grinding or simply wear and tear, a cracked tooth can lead to significant discomfort. Even serious dental issues if left untreated. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers solutions for cracked teeth and restores function and aesthetics.
White fillings are one of the best solutions to fix cracked teeth. They blend with your natural tooth colour, making them less noticeable than metal fillings. Unlike other dental treatments, fillings require less tooth structure removal. They can also increase the tooth’s bonding strength, which helps reinforce its structure. This blog explores how fillings can fix cracked teeth and how they work.
What is a Cracked Teeth?
From minor surface cracks to more severe fractures, cracked teeth can occur in many forms. Sometimes, the crack extends into your gum line and root. These cracks often cause pain, sensitivity, and difficulty chewing. If tooth crack is left untreated, it may lead to an infection (tooth abscess) that may cause serious health issues. Cracks can be categorised into many types, such as:
- Surface Cracks: These are minor and usually affect only the enamel.
- Cusp Fractures: This crack occurs on the tooth’s biting surface.
- Vertical Cracks: This crack runs below your gum line and moves toward the surface of your tooth.
- Split Teeth: As the name implies, the tooth is split into two parts. These are more severe.
What Are White Fillings?
The white fillings are a popular choice for treating cavities and minor tooth damage. They are also known as composite resin fillings. White fillings are made from glass and plastic particles designed to match your teeth’ natural colour. Still, most people prefer it for natural-looking teeth, as composite resin takes a little longer. It takes more than one layer, and a special light hardens the area around the filling.
What Happens During a White Filling Procedure?
The dentist examines the crack using X-rays and other tests (if required) to determine the damage. You will get a local anaesthetic to numb the gums around your tooth before you get a filling. The dentist will then clean away the bad and decayed part of your tooth using a drill, a laser, or an air abrasion so your tooth is ready to be filled. The dentist applies a composite resin in layers and uses a special light to bond and “cure” each layer.
Some dentists may apply glass ionomer to your tooth to protect your tooth and nerve. The dentist will smooth over the rough edges and polish it so it looks natural once your tooth is all filled. The amount of time to fill each tooth varies depending on the damage. The cost may also go up the longer that it takes. The entire process typically takes a few minutes to complete.
What Happens After the White Filling Procedure?
You may experience numbness for the next few hours after the filling is applied. Some people also report tooth sensitivity after filling, which should disappear in the next few days. See your dentist if the tooth remains sensitive after a week to ensure it is not interfering with your bite.
Can White Fillings Fix Cracked Teeth?
The effectiveness of white fillings for cracked teeth depends on the extent of the crack. It is effective for treating cracks minor surface cracks. The resin can fill small defects, seal the tooth, and prevent further damage. White filling is also the best option for cusp fractures and offers temporary relief and cosmetic improvement. White fillings may not be suitable treatment alone for vertical cracks and split teeth. The dentist may recommend treatments like crowns, root canals, or other procedures.
Other Treatments for Cracked Teeth
The treatment of a cracked tooth depends on how much damage is done. The fillings are the best treatment for cracked teeth, but other treatments are better for more severe cases, such as:
- Crowns: A dental crown may be necessary when a significant portion of the tooth is damaged. They act like a cap and cover the entire tooth, offering enhanced strength and protection.
- Inlays and Onlays: These are custom-made restorations that fit into the cavity left by the crack. They offer a balance between fillings and crowns.
- Root Canals: If the crack extends to the tooth’s root, a root canal might be necessary to remove the damaged tissue before placing a crown or other restoration.
- Tooth Extraction: Your dentist may recommend removing your tooth if a crack in your tooth severely damages the root and nerves.
How Do I Care for a White Fillings?
You can increase the life of the fillings by following these steps.
Don’t chew hard things: Eating hard or sticky foods is one of the most common causes of cracked teeth and fillings. Avoid foods like hard candies, nuts, and ice cubes.
Practice proper oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent cavities and gum disease. This removes plaque, a sticky bacteria film contributing to tooth decay and gum disease. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth.
See your dentist regularly: Routine dental checkups are vital for the health of your teeth and fillings. Your dentist spots problems early, such as small cracks or wear-in fillings. They treat them before they get worse and help remove tartar, which is not removed by brushing only.
Keep an eye on old fillings: Fillings can weaken and break down over time. The wear and tear can cause leaks, cracks, and even tooth decay beneath the filling. See your dentist if you notice any changes in your fillings or discomfort.
Protect your mouth and teeth: Use a mouthguard if you play contact sports where there’s a chance you’ll be hit in your mouth, like football, basketball or hockey.
Avoiding harmful habits: Habits like using your teeth as tools, nail-biting, or chewing on pens can stress your teeth and existing fillings. Over time, these habits can lead to chips, cracks, and even fractures.
Drink plenty of water: Dry mouth can increase the risk of teeth health issues. Saliva is essential for neutralising acids produced by bacteria and washing away food particles. Staying hydrated helps produce adequate saliva, protects your teeth, and keeps your fillings intact.
For more details on how to get a beautiful smile, contact or visit Mint Dental Center, a leading name in London Dentistry.