A broken tooth can not only be unsightly, but can also cause further issues if left untreated. In this guide, we’ll look into the various ways you can have a broken tooth repaired and how much it will cost.
Patients that come to us seeking a repair for a broken tooth tend to focus on the aesthetic damage. However, a broken tooth can go far beyond simply impacting your appearance. If left untreated, a broken tooth can also lead to costly and more extensive repair work being required. This is because below the surface, a broken tooth can actually lead to dental health concerns – which can quickly spread. Here are a few of the complications that a broken tooth could lead to:
Longer-term risks associated with leaving a broken tooth untreated can include widespread dental problems such as misalignment. This happens as teeth naturally shift to fill in any gaps due to decayed or absent teeth, and can lead to bite issues and problems with uneven wear on the teeth. You may also find yourself more susceptible to repeated infections in the mouth and recurring abscesses due to leaving the teeth susceptible to infection.
For more in-depth information on why a broken tooth needs to be repaired, take a look at our previous blog post.
There are a few options to consider if you are looking to have a broken tooth fixed. Below, we’ll guide you through them – and how much each repair option will cost. Repairs usually start at £100, with the more premium options going up to £850 per tooth.
Composite bonding is where your dentist will carefully sculpt a composite resin material to fit over the broken area, rebuilding it to look as natural as possible next to the surrounding teeth. Composite bonding can be used for more than just broken teeth, as it can also be used to address resistant stains, chips, and gaps between the teeth as well as uneven smiles.
It is one of the most popular options for repairing broken teeth, however, due to its relative affordability and the speed with which the repairs can be done. It’s also one of the least invasive cosmetic restorative choices.
Composite bonding starts at £280.00 per tooth. While they don’t last forever, quality composite bonding can last from 4 – 7 years.
Dental crowns are another popular choice for restoring broken teeth. If you have had to have sections of the tooth removed due to infection or exposure of the inner pulp, a dental crown is likely to be the most sensible option for a full restoration. Dental crowns can last decades if treated with good care and regular maintenance visits. While they do cost more than composite bonding and veneers, their lasting durability and natural comfort can help balance out the initial costs over time.
Dental crowns start at £750.00 per tooth and can usually be expected to last up to 15 years, with some lasting up to 20 years. The longevity of your crown will depend on the material it is made from and whether you have certain habits such as teeth grinding.
Composite veneers are made from the same type of resin material as composite bonding. Unlike bonding, veneers are designed to fit over the surface of the tooth rather than just a section of it. This can help boost the uniformity of your smile, whilst also ensuring your treatment lasts slightly longer than bonding. Composite veneers are the less invasive option when it comes to veneers, as the resin material rarely requires shaving down of the natural tooth before application. Composite veneers can be completed within just one visit to the dentist.
The price of composite veneers starts at £400.00. With quality care, they can last from 5 – 7 years.
Porcelain veneers are the premium option for having a broken tooth repaired, as the porcelain naturally mimics the sheen and semi translucent appearance of teeth as well as being more durable. With porcelain veneers, you may need to have some of your natural tooth shaved down to ensure a comfortable fit – so it’s not the least invasive option. However, porcelain is less susceptible to staining than composite resin, so you’re likely to be able to enjoy your new smile for longer.
Porcelain veneers begin at £850.00 per tooth. Having porcelain veneers fitted is a great opportunity to also address any cosmetic concerns you may have with other teeth, as having four to six veneers applied at once can offer a total smile transformation. They can be expected to last between 10 – 15 years. Many patients find theirs last up to 20 years if they take extra care.
It is vital that you don’t leave a broken tooth for longer than necessary. The impact of doing so can quickly cause complications, which can spread – and increase the costs related to treatment. At the most affordable end of the scale, composite bonding is your best bet for a quick and non-invasive broken tooth fix.
However, this won’t last forever. If you are looking for a more durable solution, porcelain veneers or a dental crown may be more suitable. These do come with a higher price tag, though you won’t have to spend as much over the years having your composite bonding repaired or replaced.
At Ringway Dental, we can repair broken teeth using all the treatments described in this guide. The type of treatment that will suit you may depend on the severity and complexity of the break, so it’s important that you seek advice from a reputable dentist. To find out more about our cosmetic dental services, get in touch via phone on 0161 437 2029. We will be able to advise you on the best treatment route, depending on your individual case.