Nobody wants to deal with a broken or cracked tooth, but ignoring the problem can lead to far more serious dental health issues. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, serving Rockford, MI, and surrounding areas such as Belmont, Grand Rapids, and Sparta, we specialize in restoring smiles and protecting oral health. Below, we’ll explore the dangers of damaged teeth and why timely care is essential for you and your family.
Causes of Broken or Cracked Teeth
Cracked or broken teeth can happen for a variety of reasons. Common causes include:
- Accidents, like a fall or sports injury
- Biting on hard objects, such as ice or hard candy
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Weak enamel due to poor dental hygiene or age
- Old fillings that no longer support the tooth
While accidents happen, it’s important to know that no matter the cause, leaving a broken or cracked tooth untreated can lead to significant oral health risks.
Dangers of Leaving a Broken or Cracked Tooth Untreated
A damaged tooth is not just a cosmetic issue; it’s a serious health concern. Here’s why you shouldn’t delay treatment if you suspect a tooth is cracked or broken:
1. Bacteria Can Enter the Tooth
Even a small crack in your tooth provides an entry point for bacteria. Over time, bacteria can infiltrate the interior of the tooth, leading to decay, infections, or abscesses. This can cause severe pain and may even require root canal therapy or tooth extraction if left untreated.
2. Risk of Further Damage
Small cracks can easily expand into larger fractures, compromising the structural integrity of the tooth. The more the tooth deteriorates, the more complex (and expensive!) the necessary treatment will become.
3. Pain and Discomfort
Even if your broken or cracked tooth isn’t causing pain now, it could lead to extreme tooth sensitivity or sharp pain when eating certain foods. Ignoring this can make daily life uncomfortable and reduce your quality of life.
4. Gum and Jaw Problems
Untreated cracks can result in issues beyond the tooth itself. For instance, infections can spread to the gums or jawbone, jeopardizing the health of surrounding teeth and tissue.
How We Can Help at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry
At Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we know how disruptive a broken or cracked tooth can be, which is why we focus on fast, effective, and pain-free solutions. Whether through dental crowns or bonding, we repair your teeth to restore both functionality and aesthetics.
Dental Crowns
A crown can protect and reinforce the structure of a heavily damaged tooth. Made from high-quality, natural-looking materials, our crowns are custom-fitted for both comfort and durability.
Dental Bonding
For minor chips or cracks, dental bonding is a quick and efficient option. Using tooth-colored composite resin, we can restore the appearance and strength of your damaged tooth in just one visit.
Protect Your Smile, Protect Your Health
Your teeth are essential to your overall well-being and confidence. Don’t wait until small issues become large problems. Here at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we’re here to help residents of Rockford, Belmont, Grand Rapids, and Sparta maintain healthy, beautiful smiles for years to come.
If you have a broken or cracked tooth, don’t hesitate to contact us. Schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward protecting your oral health.
Your smile deserves it! 😊
CONTACT ERIC HULL AESTHETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY:
