178 million adults in the US have one or more missing teeth. Missing or broken teeth might seem like a minor inconvenience. However, we recognize that missing or broken teeth can have big impact on our oral health, impact our speech and eating, and affect our psychological and social well-being.

But fear not, there are numerous treatment options available, depending on the severity of the problem and your individual needs. Let's explore the possibilities.

Minor Chips & Cracks

Dental Bonding: This is a quick and affordable fix for small chips or cracks. A tooth-colored resin is applied and sculpted to seamlessly blend with your natural tooth.

Dental Veneers: For slightly larger chips on front teeth, thin porcelain shells can be bonded to the front surface. These veneers restore both aesthetics and strength.

Moderate Fractures

Inlays and Onlays: These custom-made fillings fill larger cavities or cracks extending onto the chewing surface. They offer more durability than traditional fillings.

Crowns: If a significant portion of the tooth is broken, a crown (cap) provides complete coverage and restores functionality. Crowns can be made from various materials such as a metal, porcelain, or a combination of those two for aesthetics and strength.

Severe Tooth Fractures or Teeth Loss

Root Canal: If the fracture reaches the pulp (sensitive inner part) of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove infected tissue (the root) and preserve the tooth.

Bridges: If multiple teeth are missing, a bridge can be attached to surrounding teeth and span the gap, replacing the missing ones.

Dental Implants: For teeth beyond repair or in cases of tooth loss, implants offer a permanent solution. A biocompatible titanium screw is surgically placed in the jawbone, acting as an anchor for a crown or other restoration. Implants are used in combination with Crowns and sometimes Bridges.

Dentures: For extensive tooth loss or in situations where implants are not suitable, dentures can provide a removable replacement for teeth.

Things to Consider

With so many options to consider, you would want to think through several key parameters when making a decision:

1. Cost: Options like Crowns and Implants tend to be more expensive than Fillings or Bonding.

2. Durability: Implants offer the most long-lasting solution, while Fillings and Bondings might require replacements over time.

3. Aesthetics: Veneers and Porcelain Crowns provide the most natural-looking results.

The type of treatment option will depend on your specific problem with respect to a missing or broken tooth and your preferences. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment is crucial.

Seek advice from Dr Jere, your Prosthodontist, on what makes best sense from a clinical perspective as well as for our overall oral health.