The enamel layer of your teeth is very hard and extremely durable, yet there are times when a fall or blow to the face can actually fracture one of your teeth. This is even more likely if you grind your teeth at night.
If a fractured tooth is sensitive, or you experience persistent or sharp pain, it usually means that the fracture has penetrated the pulp or root of the tooth. In a situation this, Dr. Darren Haws might need to perform a root canal.
Even if the tooth doesn’t cause you any pain, the fracture will likely invite tooth decay problems in the future. In many cases, Dr. Darren Haws will recommend replacing all of the tooth enamel with a crown.
This will require two separate appointments. At the first appointment, Dr. Darren Haws examines the tooth to assess the extent of the damage and make sure the interior structures of the tooth are sound.
Dr. Darren Haws will then use a drill to remove the majority of the enamel layer of the tooth. This creates an abutment that will later anchor your new crown. Then he will then take an impression of the area, which is sent to a dental lab, that custom-makes your permanent crown. At the end of the first appointment, Dr. Darren Haws secures a hard plastic cap, or temporary crown, over the abutment to protect it.
We will schedule your second appointment once the dental lab has completed your permanent crown. At this appointment our dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent crown in place.
If you have a fractured tooth that needs to be restored, please call Douglas Dental at 520-364-3361 to schedule an appointment.