Broken or missing teeth pose an oral health dilemma: If you’re not in pain, should you visit your dentist to fix the issue right away or can you wait awhile?
The answer is that it’s always best to discuss dental problems with your dentist as soon as possible. Not only can broken and missing teeth compromise your oral health, but today’s restorative dentistry offers long-term solutions that will make you smile.
For broken or missing teeth in Winston-Salem, NC, we often recommend dental crowns or bridges. These two dental treatments can work alone or together to restore your smile.
Dental Crowns Protect Broken Teeth
When it comes to good oral health, most people know they should fix broken teeth. Broken teeth can cause considerable pain and become infected or decayed. But even if the tooth doesn’t hurt or feel different, it may benefit from a dental crown.
Teeth that sustain fractures – even if very small – can eventually lead to larger fractures and even tooth loss. A crown is a dental cap that completely covers a broken or cracked tooth, giving it new life. The hard surface of a porcelain crown can take the forces of chewing and biting while protecting the tooth underneath.
Dental crowns also work together with bridges when you have a missing tooth.
Dental Bridges Replace Missing Teeth
Because gaps between teeth can cause other teeth to shift and even tooth decay, it’s best to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. A dental bridge is an artificial tooth that is suspended between two dental crowns on either side. The adjacent teeth provide support and stability for the artificial tooth, allowing you to chew and speak normally.
Cosmetic Consultations in Winston-Salem
If you’re ready to restore your smile and fix missing or broken teeth, contact the Winston-Salem, NC dental office of Dr. Jeffrey J. Tibbs, DDS. We specialize in dental crown and bridge treatments that will protect your oral health and put a smile on your face.