illustration of a cracked toothNo matter how hard a person works to protect the health and strength of their teeth, they are likely to suffer from dental damage at some point. Dental cracks are one of the most common types of dental damage. While minor cracks cause just superficial damage, more severe cracks threaten the strength and health of a tooth.

At his Lake Mary, FL, dental practice, Dr. Steven Hochfelder offers dental crowns for cracked teethDental crowns repair and protect damaged teeth so that individuals can once again enjoy a strong, fully functional, and attractive smile.

Should I Be Concerned About a Cracked Tooth?

To understand the impact that a crack can have on a tooth, you must understand the basic structure of the tooth. A tooth is made up of several layers. The outermost layer of the tooth is made of enamel. Tooth enamel is a hard mineral substance that can withstand regular pressure and force. Below the enamel is a slightly softer layer of dentin. At the core of the tooth is a collection of sensitive nerves and tissues, which is known as the pulp of the tooth.

Minor cracks that only affect a tooth’s enamel are not a structural or health concern, although they will still create an aesthetic blemish. Dental cracks that are deep enough to expose the pulp of a tooth are more concerning. Deep dental cracks are likely to cause pain and/or increased tooth sensitivity. They also leave the tooth vulnerable to infection.

Restoring the Teeth with Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are often the best way for our Lake Mary patients to restore a tooth that has been damaged by a moderate or severe crack. Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that sit over the natural teeth. Dental crowns are made of durable materials that provide a protective barrier around the pulp of a tooth. Dental crowns restore the strength of a tooth so that patients can comfortably bite, chew, and perform other oral functions.

Every dental crown is customized to the unique needs of each patient. Dr. Hochfelder is able to customize the size, shape, and color of a dental crown. This allows us to create a dental crown that restores the beauty of a cracked tooth while blending in seamlessly with adjacent natural teeth.

Dental Crown Treatment

Dental crown treatment takes place in two phases. During the first phase of treatment, the tooth is prepared for dental crown placement. Dr. Hochfelder prepares a tooth by removing damaged materials and reshaping the tooth so that a dental crown will fit comfortably. Molds are taken of the reshaped tooth and design specifications are sent to a dental laboratory. It takes around two weeks for a dental crown to be fabricated, but a temporary crown is placed in the meantime.

When the permanent dental crown is complete, our Lake Mary patients return for the second phase of treatment. At this time we test the fit of the dental crown. If necessary, minor adjustments can be made. When we are satisfied with the fit, the dental crown is bonded to the tooth with a dental compound that cements the restoration in place.

Contact Us

If a cracked tooth is causing oral pain or has simply left you feeling self-conscious about the appearance of your smile, Dr. Steven Hochfelder would be happy to discuss dental treatment options. To find out how we can help you restore a healthy, attractive smile, send us a message online, or call our dental practice at (407) 321-8900.