2 Cosmetic Dental Applications For A Cracked Tooth

Biting down on a hard substance can crack a tooth. The bite pressure that is applied to break a piece of hard candy may be too much for a weak spot in your tooth enamel, and a fissure or crack could result. As long as the crack is superficial, it may not jeopardize the health of the tooth, but it can still affect the appearance. Nevertheless, there are multiple cosmetic dental applications that can be used to repair a cracked tooth. Here are two of them:

Porcelain Veneers

A porcelain veneer can be bonded to the front of your cracked tooth to protect and conceal the crack. The veneer is shaped like the front side of the tooth, and the color of the veneer can be matched to that of your adjacent teeth. In addition, veneers don't require you to eat a special diet or avoid specific foods. You can continue to enjoy life in your usual manner without being concerned about the appearance of the cracked tooth.

To design your veneer, your dentist will make an impression of your cracked tooth. The mold is then sent to a dental laboratory so that the impression can be used in the fabrication of your veneer. After the veneer is made, it is sent back to your dentist to be placed over your tooth.

Due to the time required at the dental laboratory, the installation of your veneer will usually require two separate dental visits. The mold is prepared during the first visit, and the veneer is placed during the second.

A veneer will typically last for seven to 20 years, if not longer, so a dental correction using a veneer is long-lasting.

Composite Resin

Composite resin is a type of dental bonding material that is made of plastic. The resin can be colored and shaped to match your tooth, and since it is pliable, it can be fashioned directly over the crack. To harden the composite material, your dentist may apply a special light for a few moments after the composite resin is in place.

Restorations using composite resin can usually be performed during a single dental visit.

In addition, composite bonding material can last 10 to 15 years.

If you have a cracked tooth, you should see a dentist to determine the extent of the crack and the best way to restore the appearance of your tooth. Schedule an appointment with a cosmetic dentist in your area today.