What’s the Cheapest Way to Fix a Front Tooth Broken at the Gumline?
My left front tooth broke off just below the gumline. Is there an affordable way to fix it without dental implants? – Thanks. Drew from Indianapolis
Drew,
An affordable fix for a tooth broken just below the gumline won’t last long. Even if a dentist used dental composite at the bottom of the broken tooth, it would be affordable, but it wouldn’t look good.
We recommend adjusting your priority to preserving your tooth for a long time. Otherwise, you will lose the tooth.
What Is the Treatment for a Tooth Broken Below the Gumline?
A root canal is the treatment for a tooth broken below the gumline. A dentist would need to place a flexible carbon fiber or fiberglass post in the tooth to help it resist lateral stress from the force of biting. Two posts can increase the resistance of rotational forces that would weaken the tooth over time.
However, you need an exam and X-ray to determine the tooth’s condition and whether it is savable. According to the American Association of Endodontists (root canal specialists), tooth trauma can expose or fracture the tooth’s roots. Fractures closer to the gumline significantly affect a tooth’s viability.
A tooth post and dental crown may not work if you have a strong bite. If restoring your tooth is not beneficial for your long-term oral health, a dentist will recommend an extraction and dental implant. If you
Given the severity of the trauma to your tooth, seeking professional advice is important. The cheapest solution may not be in your best interest. Look for a dentist experienced in root canal treatment and dental implants to compare your treatment options and outcomes.
This post is sponsored by Dr. Thaddeus Michalski, a Rocky Hill, Connecticut dentist and Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.
Will Dental Bonding Help Fluorosis Stains on My 5th Grader’s Teeth?
My daughter just finished fourth grade. Now that it’s summer, I want to do something about the fluorosis stains on her teeth. Her bottom front teeth are pretty yellow, and her upper front teeth are blotchy. Her left front tooth has a jagged side. My daughter is wearing braces but is so self-conscious about her smile. The braces bring attention to her teeth, and the discoloration is noticeable. What are our options? Our pediatric dentist recommended waiting until my daughter is a teenager, but I don’t think that’s wise for her self-image. Will dental bonding help fluorosis stains on my 5th grader’s teeth?
Thanks. Daneen from TX
Daneen,
A cosmetic dentist can conceal fluorosis stains. However, the treatment recommendation varies depending on stain severity. Concealing fluorosis stains requires advanced training and technical and artistic ability. Most general and family dentists lack the training needed to produce natural-looking results.
What Causes Fluorosis Stains?
Factors that can cause fluorosis stains include community drinking water with too much fluoride, untreated well water, or consuming too many fluoride supplements. Swallowing too much fluoride toothpaste can also cause tooth stains.
How Are Fluorosis Stains Treated?
A cosmetic dentist treats fluorosis stains based on their severity.
Mild stains
Mild fluorosis creates white teeth stains. A skilled cosmetic dentist can apply dental composite to conceal the spots.
Extensive stains
Extensive stains require porcelain veneers. A skilled cosmetic dentist will design veneers that mimic natural tooth color, shade, and translucency.
Discoloration
Yellow teeth stains without blotches may not be fluorosis. However, a dentist can determine the cause of the stains. A cosmetic dentist may bleach the teeth before recommending dental bonding or porcelain veneers.
Orthodontic Treatment and Fluorosis Stains
A cosmetic dentist will recommend when and how to treat your daughter’s fluorosis stains while in orthodontic treatment. Schedule a consultation with a dentist who enjoys treating children and has advanced cosmetic dentistry training.
Rocky Hill, Connecticut, dentist Dr. Thaddeus Michalski sponsors this post. Read how he provides some of the best dental care in Rocky Hill.