Find a Dentist Near Me for Smile Restorations

When you damage your smile, restoring it should be at the top of your list of priorities. This will likely lead you to search "find a dentist near me" for smile restorations. However, it is important to note that there are different types of damage, and some dental professionals may be more suitable for your condition than others.

Types of teeth damage

When searching for the phrase "find a dentist near me," it is important to have a general knowledge of the type of damage present in the smile. This information can help narrow down the list that search engines populate. For example, consider the following before choosing a dental provider:

Broken cusps

A broken or fractured cusp refers to a portion of the chewing surface of a tooth being broken off. The degree of the fracture can vary, making it difficult for the naked eye to know if it is incomplete or complete. This damage primarily occurs on the back upper and lower molars.

Split teeth

A split tooth means the tooth has a crack that moves through every layer, making it completely separate. The two parts of the tooth are only held together by the socket.

Vertical root fracture

A vertical root fracture is not always visible to the naked eye, but one can feel its presence. It refers to a complete or incomplete crack that extends on any portion of the root of a tooth.

Worn enamel

Enamel erosion, or worn enamel, can expose the internal layers of a tooth and can happen over time, especially when one consumes many sugars or acidic substances. It is also common in people who consume tobacco products, grind their teeth (bruxism), or have poor oral hygiene habits.

Impaction

Impaction refers to a tooth failing to fully emerge above the gumline. This can cause pain and shift the surrounding teeth. It can also damage the roots of the tooth adjacent to the problem tooth, as most impactions lead to a tooth growing into the socket of another, damaging its roots. Though impaction can happen to any tooth, it is most common in wisdom teeth.

Missing teeth

The most obvious type of damage is total loss. It can result from trauma, infection, disease, or forced removal from a provider. Regardless, it is important to replace the missing tooth as soon as possible to prevent extensive issues.

Damage a general dentist can address

While some damage is hard to diagnose by oneself, common signs aside from aesthetics include pain, swelling, and sensitivity. Scheduling an appointment with a dental provider, such as a general dentist, for a formal diagnosis is highly recommended. A general dentist can address most if not all, types of tooth damage through various means. However, when conducting research, it is important to scan their website to see what services they offer.

Patients should inquire with a phone call or consultation to better understand their available options. During this time, the general dentist can either point to or provide the most effective smile restoration option, whether crowns, fillings, extractions, or tooth replacement options.