Whether you endured a sports injury or bit down on a peach pit, your teeth can become chipped or broken. Unfortunately, a damaged tooth increases the risk of tooth decay or dental infection. Your Rochester dentist, Dr. Gilly Calcagno, offers a number of cosmetic and restorative techniques to return your broken tooth to full function and health.
The Dangers of a Broken Tooth
Our teeth are coated in a protective layer of tooth enamel. The hardest substance in the human body, enamel protects our teeth from damage and harmful bacteria. When a tooth becomes broken, bacteria can reach the sensitive inner tooth structure. Soon, tooth decay develops. A cavity causes tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures and toothaches. Without treatment, the tooth may become infected or abscessed. When this occurs, the tooth may require a root canal or potentially, extraction. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort in your tooth, see your Rochester MN dentist immediately.
Restoring Damaged Teeth
If you chip a tooth, first gather up any pieces you can find. Then rinse your mouth with warm water and contact your Rochester MN dentist right away. You may need to apply a small piece of gauze to control any bleeding. At our practice, Dr. Calcagno will decide which of our cosmetic and restorative procedures will best repair your broken tooth. Our restoration techniques include:
- Crowns: A crown acts as a cap that fits over the tooth, preserving the remaining tooth structure and preventing further damage or decay. We offer crowns made from esthetically pleasing materials, such as dental porcelain. Our CEREC crowns can be created and placed in a just one visit.
- Dental Bonding: Using a composite resin, Dr. Calcagno can fill in chips and restore the tooth.
- Porcelain Veneers: Using custom-made shells of porcelain, Dr. Calcagno can address multiple dental imperfections, including unsightly chips or fractures.
About Dr. Calcagno:
Dr. Gilly Calcagno is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Minnesota Dental Association, and is active in local dental implant study clubs. To schedule a consultation, call Calcagno Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry today at (507) 281-3659.
