When a tooth is cracked or chipped, not only does the appearance change, but the functionality of the tooth has been compromised and is at risk of infection if the damage is bad enough.  Damaged teeth due to impact is a common scenario in the dental world and it is a problem that is relatively easily fixed depending on the extent of the damage at hand. At River Run Family Dentistry we want to make sure that each patient gets dental care they need.

Fixing a broken tooth that has sustained mild injury is repaired in a way that is a bit similar to filling a cavity. The process used is called bonding and is an effective procedure for teeth that need to be repaired, but do not necessarily need a crown.

How Does Bonding Work?

Bonding is a procedure that involves resin material that gets bonded to the tooth and shaped to mimic the missing portion. This material is almost putty-like and gets hardened when placed on the tooth via either a laser or blue light.

Is This Material Durable?

Resin is reasonably durable, but keep in mind that it is not quite as strong as natural teeth. However, it is more than adequate in day to day life. It is advised that you try not to put too much pressure on the bonded tooth when eating. A bonded tooth that has been taken care of can last a patient up to 7 years, depending on the location and how much bonding material was used. However, if the bonded tooth is in a “high traffic” area such as the front teeth, then the material may need to be re-applied.

Veneers vs Bonding

If the damage to a tooth only affects cosmetic appearances and you do not want to have to worry about getting a tooth re-bonded, veneers are an option to consider. They are more expensive than bonding, but they can provide a cosmetic boost to your top row of teeth rather than simply repairing 1-2 teeth at a time. In addition to this, veneers that are well taken care of can last up to 15 years. 

Bonding is chosen as a way to restore cosmetics more often as it is lower in price for the procedure and you don’t have to worry about something that you need to take out and clean every day. 

Does Insurance Cover Bonding?

Procedures that are purely for cosmetic reasons only such as whitening will not be covered by insurance in the vast majority of cases. However, bonding can be done for structural reasons or cosmetic reasons which can make the situation unclear at times. If we feel that the damaged tooth is a danger to you or your mouth, then insurance should cover part of the cost. This will be up to your provider’s discretion on how much will be covered.

We Want to Hear from You

Whether it is for cosmetic or dental health reasons, if you would like to have a chipped or cracked tooth repaired, we want to help! At River Run Family Dentistry helping patients have the best smile they can in an environment they feel welcome is our top priority. You can call 830-387-3040 to ask any questions or schedule an appointment.

Medical technology has been advancing at a breakneck pace for the past several decades, and dentistry hasn’t been left behind. Dental professionals are constantly looking for the newest forms of treatments and technology that will aid in providing their patients with the best possible care, and we’re going to introduce you to some of the newest advancements that have been made.

VELscope

This technology employs a special form of light that our dentists use to detect dental abnormalities. VELscope is particularly effective in the detection of disease and cancer in its earliest stages as part of an oral screening.

Digital X-Rays

A common concern of patients is the amount of radiation they’re exposed to during a dental exam. The newest forms of imaging technology employ digital x-rays, which not only employs 90% less radiation than traditional x-rays but provides viewable films to the dental staff immediately. These images are able to be zoomed in on for highly accurate assessments of dental health.

Invisalign

For decades braces have been the go-to method of straightening misaligned teeth. While effective, braces are uncomfortable and unsightly. Invisalign is an innovation in this area of dental care that provides the benefits of braces while remaining nearly invisible. Additionally, Invisalign can be removed when eating, removing dietary restrictions associated with braces.

Laser Dentistry

Past techniques for whitening, reducing tooth sensitivity, tumor removal, and filling cavities have often been uncomfortable for the patient, and time-consuming. New innovations in laser technology have created painless alternatives that also aid in eliminating harmful bacteria.

Dental Implants

Traditional dentures are often ill-fitting, uncomfortable, and prone to embarrassing mishaps like slippage. Modern dental implants provide prosthetic teeth that are nearly indistinguishable from normal teeth and are long-lasting.

HealOzone

This innovation uses ozone (O3) to rapidly kill bacteria and fungus painlessly. It also makes a great tool for detecting tooth decay and suppressing it before it becomes more advanced.

DIAGNOdent

This cutting-edge technology is capable of detecting cavities in places that traditional x-ray techniques can’t locate. By employing DIAGNOdent your dentist ensures that no early signs of cavities go unnoticed, saving you time and money on future dental treatments.

Intraoral Camera

This tool employs a special camera that provides well-defined and precise images of places difficult to see in a patient’s mouth with traditional imaging. Just one more tool to aid your dentist in a thorough and accurate assessment of your dental condition.

These are just some of the technologies that have been brought into common use in recent years in our dental offices. Every year we keep an eye out for new methods of treating our patient’s dental concerns by improving visibility, reducing discomfort, and aiding us in providing complete and thorough assessments. If you have any questions about the technology your dentist is using in your exams, don’t hesitate to ask! Curious patients are educated patients, and we love to encourage our patients to be knowledgeable about their dental care.