Seal Enamel Infractions For Stronger Teeth
Dental enamel is essential to the anatomy of a healthy tooth. It is one of the four major tissues that make up a tooth, and is the hardest tissue in the human body. However, trauma to the mouth or face can result in enamel infractions, which are simply tiny cracks in the surface of the tooth. Enamel infractions are considered a traumatic dental injury, but they usually do not require emergency dental care. Dr. Sean Healy and Dr. Diego Hurtado are experienced and knowledgeable oral surgeons in Santa Fe, NM, who offer effective infraction treatments that seal the small cracks and harden the enamel to prevent further dental problems.
Repairing Enamel Can Prevent Complications
Enamel infractions often do not cause pain or immediate problems, but they can be the catalyst to a host of dental complications if left untreated. When an infraction occurs, small cracks form in the tooth that can allow bacterial invasion and possible infection of the dental pulp. At best, you may need root canal therapy to remove inflamed dental pulp from inside the tooth, and then a crown to seal the tooth from further bacteria. In more severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted due to extreme infection deep within the tooth structure. Our surgeons can diagnose the severity of your infraction and recommend treatment as necessary.
Enamel Infraction Treatments
Dr. Healy will need to perform a complete evaluation of any cracked teeth you may have in order to recommend proper treatment. If you experience a very minor infraction, you may not need treatment at all, but rather consistent inspection and monitoring by Dr. Healy. For fractures that extend deep into the enamel, or for patients who have multiple fractures, Dr. Healy can use composite resin to seal the cracks. This can prevent bacterial invasion and more serious problems. The composite resin can be matched to the color of your tooth for a natural look.
When an infraction occurs, small cracks form in the tooth that can allow bacterial invasion and possible infection of the dental pulp.
If your infractions dramatically compromise the appearance of your tooth, you may need to have a porcelain veneer, crown, or another restoration placed after the tooth has been sealed. This will not only save the health of the tooth, it will restore its appearance. If the underlying structures of the tooth, such as the dentin, pulp, and periodontal ligaments become adversely affected, Dr. Healy may need to perform additional treatments to ensure the health of the tooth as a whole.
Recovery and Aftercare
Your recovery will depend on your unique situation. If you experience relatively minor trauma and small fractures, you should be able to continue your normal diet and routine immediately after treatment. If you receive a restoration, then you may need to use caution when eating hard or sticky foods. Dr. Healy will design an aftercare regimen for you to ensure the most longevity from your restoration.
Make an Appointment
Though enamel infractions usually are not urgent, you should still schedule a visit with us as soon as possible if you think you may have experienced a dental infraction. Contact our office online or call us at (505) 984-0694 to schedule an appointment.
