Chipped tooth repairs

* Patients of Dr. Golestani

Chipped or fractured teeth are considered a dental emergency and should be treated as soon as possible. A broken tooth can affect the nerve located inside resulting in a high risk of infection and further dental issues in the future.

Before & After chipped teeth restorations

Why do teeth chip?

Tooth chipping and cracking can be caused from chewing hard foods, grinding, clenching (which commonly happens at night and you may be completely unaware of it), large fillings/restorations that have weakened the integrity of the tooth, accidents/trauma to the mouth and natural ageing.

diagram showing fractured cusp cracked tooth and split tooth

Most common types of chips

Craze lines- These are small cracks in the enamel layer only and are very common. They cause no discomfort and usually don’t require treatment, however, this is best assessed by Dr Golestani during an examination.

Cracked/ fractured cusp– The cusp is the point of the tooth. Often this occurs around an existing filling in the tooth and usually doesn’t crack into the nerve of the tooth therefore often no discomfort is associated. However when this is chipped, it can cause damage to the structure of the rest of the tooth.

Cracked tooth- This occurs when a crack runs through the crown of the tooth to the gum line. In some cases when only the crown is fractured this tooth may be salvable. However if the crack has run underneath the gum line and through the root (which can only be seen through x-rays) this tooth is likely to need an extraction. Prompt dental treatment ensures the best chance at saving the tooth.

Split tooth- A split tooth is an extensive crack that runs along the root surface. This can cause significant discomfort and if left untreated can result in the tooth splitting into two or more segments. There is a high risk of infection when a tooth is split and seeking prompt dental treatment is crucial, don’t delay your visit and phone one of our team to arrange an emergency appointment.

Treatment at home while you wait for the dentist

Gargle salt water

Warm salty water rinses helps to remove bacteria living in your mouth and can help reduce the swelling. Half a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water and gentle rinse around for 30 seconds to a minute. Avoid swallowing the water and repeat throughout the day.

Painkillers

If necessary you may take what you normally would for a headache, however, be sure to read the dosage instructions and do not rub medicine on the tooth as this can irritate the gum tissue.

Apply ice

Applying a cold compress to the cheek can help minimise pain and reduce inflammation in the area. Do not apply ice directly to the tooth as this can increase sensitivity.

Arrange an emergency appointment

Contact our team as soon as possible on 1300 625 625 to arrange immediate treatment to prevent the condition from worsening, and the development of other dental issues i.e. infection.

Cost to repair a chipped or cracked tooth

As there are multiple treatment options available to repair chipped or cracked teeth it can be difficult to confirm the cost prior to an examination or x-ray.
The cost of treatment will vary depending on the size of the restoration required and whether or not the natural tooth can be saved.

Here at Dental 359 we have payment plan solutions to assist with financing treatment and there are multiple options to suit all circumstances.

So that we may provide an accurate estimate of fees please contact one of our friendly Patient Coordinators on 1300 625 625 to discuss treatment options and payment plans available.

Treatment to repair a chipped tooth

Treatment is dependent on the size and location of the crack, your symptoms, whether the root has been affected and your biting or grinding habits. Dr Golestani will take into account these factors when examining the tooth and will determine the most suitable treatment option for you.

Bonding

This process involves using resin to fill any cracks, restore the look and function of a tooth.  Resin may be used to repair the tooth temporarily until a permanent solution (such as a crown or Cerec) can be placed.

Porcelain Veneers

Dental, or porcelain Veneers (sometimes known as porcelain teeth) are a thin layer of porcelain placed over a tooth to improve the aesthetics and function of a tooth including cracked, chipped or worn teeth.

Cerec Restoration

Using CAD/CAM technology Dr Golestani will design a virtual restoration (onlay, inlay or crown) and combined with a milling unit, is able to build the actual ceramic restoration while you are still in the chair.

No treatment

In some cases treatment is not required at all. After an examination with Dr Golestani has been completed the best treatment may be to leave small cracks or hairline fractures, if they are just in the enamel surface.

Crown

An all Ceramic Crown, sometimes known as caps, is an artificial ceramic device that covers the entire tooth. The crown recaptures the tooth’s natural contours and ideal shape; whilst restoring its natural function. Crowns also protect the underlying tooth and upon completion of the procedure the tooth has normal or improved functioning ability.

Root canal treatment

In some cases the crack can be so extensive that it runs into the nerve of the tooth. In this case the damaged pulp will need to be removed, also known as a root canal treatment. If this is left untreated there is a high chance of infection and the tooth weakening further. To restore the integrity of the tooth post root canal, a crown is often paired with this treatment to get the best results and longevity of the tooth.

Extraction

When the structure of the tooth and roots are too damaged in some cases there is no treatment available to save the tooth and it will need to be removed to avoid splitting and infection.

Dr Golestani will provide options to replace the extracted tooth such as a dental implant.

BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION

If you would like to arrange an appointment with our team please phone 1300 625 625 to speak with one of our friendly Treatment Coordinators.