Fractures are the most common traumatic dental injury to permanent teeth. A fracture presents at various levels. Enamel fractures are fairly shallow. Enamel and dentin fractures extend a bit deeper. The most dangerous type of fracture for your future dental health is one which includes enamel, dentin, and pulp exposure. Evanston cosmetic dentist, Dr. Brent A. Engelberg recently published an article in Inside Dentistry on this very topic.
Can the Tooth be Saved?
Everything depends on the extent and type of damage. If a clean break has occurred, and you were able to retrieve the tooth fragment, reattachment through endodontics or the use of certain dental adhesives is possible. Otherwise, restoration of the remaining structure is usually best reached with the help of a strong dental crown. For a more shallow fracture or small ship, dental veneers are often a good fix. Materials which mimic the appearance and translucence of natural teeth are available to ensure that anyone with a broken tooth can keep their repairs a secret. All anyone else will see is a beautiful smile.
Protecting Teeth from Injury
There is unfortunately no possible way to guarantee a dental injury will not occur. There are certain steps you and your children can take to stop avoidable accidents. Children tend to pick up bad habits of gnawing on pencils, chewing on ice, or chomping on big, hard candies such as enormous jawbreakers. Teach them about the importance of preserving their dental health and breaking these behaviors. Meanwhile, if your child is an athlete, make sure they are fitted with a comfortable, customized athletic mouthguard. Mouthguards should be a requirement in many contact sports. Even if your child’s team doesn’t mandate, encourage your little sports star to start the trend.
Visit your Evanston Cosmetic Dentist
Dr. Engelberg would love to help you and your children achieve the smiles of your dreams. If anyone in your family has had an accident or has succumb to a dental injury, schedule a consultation at our 60201 dentist office by calling 847-259-8030. We are happy to serve patients in Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, Northwest Chicago Suburbs, and Northern Chicago Suburbs.
