Our teeth play a big role in maintaining normal body functions. They are responsible for mastication- the primary phase of digestion. People regularly visit their dentist because they are aware of the importance of their teeth. Just imagine your life without your teeth. How do you think it would go?
Children are born with no teeth. As the child grows, he will develop teeth one by one until 20 teeth are formed. This set of teeth is only temporary. Soon, a new set of teeth will develop and replace the old ones. This time, 32 permanent teeth are formed. In some cases, there are more teeth formed. The excess teeth are referred to as supernumerary teeth. Other people do not have the so called wisdom tooth. That is why the number of teeth varies from one person to another. The teeth are vulnerable to various microorganisms; if germs are not killed, one would surely have broken teeth.
People who engage in physical activities have a strong tendency to develop broken teeth. Accidents may occur during these activities that would damage the teeth. The type of damage is dependent on its extent.
The layer of the teeth which the damaged part covers determines the extent of the damage. To recall, the teeth have the following layer: enamel, dentine, pulp and cementum. If the damage of the teeth is only within the enamel, there is usually no pain felt. Meanwhile, if the damage covers the inner layers of the teeth, then there will surely be pain. Different damages require different treatments. For instance, if the injury has already reached the innermost layers of the teeth such as the nerves, a root canal treatment will be necessary.
As mentioned earlier, there are different types of broken teeth. The most common ones are minor cracks. These are fractures on the surface of the teeth. Usually, no treatment is required especially if there is no pain involved. The more severe type of a crack is a chip. Although it is not required, chips are often treated since there is the tendency of worsening the injury if it is left as it is. Then, there are cusp fractures which make it difficult for you to eat your food. More serious fractures are those that have reached the internal parts of the teeth. Also, these types of injury often lead to infection. Ergo, it must be treated as early as possible.
Every man's face is different. So are their teeth. While there are different types of damages, there are different treatments for broken teeth. The type of treatment used is the one that is compatible to the person and the damage. For instance, fillings are used for minor fractures. Since there is the tendency that the damage would worsen, dental crowns are applied to more serious types of fractures. As for severe ones, dental crowns and operations are needed. The damaged part must first be removed before applying the crown. Periodontal surgery is performed in some cases of dental injury. That way, the chances of having broken teeth again is decreased.
More Information:
Categories
