You bite down on something hard, and suddenly—crack! That alarming moment can leave you feeling panicked and unsure of what to do next. Fortunately, Dr. Neal Johnson, DMD, at his Billings and Laurel practice, specializes in repairing cracked, broken, and chipped teeth. He’s here to restore your smile and ensure your teeth are strong and healthy, so you can feel confident again.
Ignoring a cracked tooth can lead to serious issues, from painful infections to tooth loss. This post will guide you through the common causes, next steps, and treatment options to keep your smile intact.
Common Causes of Cracked Teeth
Trauma and Accidents
A trip, fall, or sports injury can exert enough force to crack a tooth. Accidents happen, but even a minor impact can compromise your dental health if left unchecked.
Chewing Hard Foods
Biting into hard candy, ice, or even unexpected non-food items (like a pen cap) is a major culprit behind cracks. Your teeth are strong, but they’re not invincible.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Chronic grinding or clenching, often caused by stress or sleep disorders, puts immense pressure on your teeth. Over time, this can weaken the enamel and lead to fractures.
Tooth Decay
Untreated cavities can hollow out your teeth, making them more susceptible to cracking even with minimal force. Regular dental checkups are crucial to prevent this.
Age and Wear
Years of chewing and prior dental work can wear down the strength of your teeth. Older fillings or crowns may also weaken, increasing the risk of cracks.
What to Do If You Crack a Tooth
Dealing with a cracked tooth promptly can make all the difference. Here’s what you should do the moment it happens:
- Rinse with Warm Water: Clean the area gently to remove debris and reduce the risk of infection.
- Protect the Tooth: Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage.
- Contact Dr. Neal Johnson, DMD: Fast action is crucial, and his team is equipped to provide immediate care for cracked and damaged teeth.
Treatment Options for Cracked Teeth
When you visit Dr. Neal Johnson, DMD, he’ll assess the damage and recommend one of these tailored treatment options to restore your smile.
Dental Crowns
For significant cracks, dental crowns are a durable solution that restores the tooth’s strength and appearance.
Dental Bonding
Minor chips and cracks can often be repaired effectively with bonding. This quick, minimally invasive option blends seamlessly with your natural tooth.
Dental Veneers
For more visible damage on front teeth, dental veneers provide a cosmetic fix that enhances both your smile and your confidence.
Tooth Extraction and Replacement
If a crack is too severe to repair, extraction may be necessary. But don’t worry, replacement options like dental bridges or implants can seamlessly fill the gap. Implants, in particular, are a permanent, natural-looking solution designed for longevity.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Leaving a cracked tooth untreated opens the door to several complications, including infections and further tooth loss. By seeking help early, you can prevent long-term damage and additional expenses.
At his Billings practice, Dr. Neal Johnson, DMD, prioritizes personalized care, using modern techniques to ensure your treatment is effective, comfortable, and fast. Treatments are designed to address your individual needs, so you can enjoy optimal dental health.
Protect Your Smile Today
A cracked tooth doesn’t have to disrupt your life when swift, professional care is just a call away. Residents of Billings and Laurel can trust Dr. Neal Johnson, DMD, to provide expert solutions and restore their smiles with ease.
Contact Neal C. Johnson DMD:
406-656-2700
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
176 S 32nd St W Ste 3
Billings, Montana
59102
