Cracked, broken, or decayed teeth are serious issues that require immediate attention from a qualified dentist . If you do not get the issue fixed, you are putting yourself at risk for more serious oral health issues. Keep reading to learn more about dental implants and overlays to see how you can get the care you need if you damage a tooth:

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a titanium screw that is embedded into the jaw to serve as a foundation for a replacement tooth. Dental implants require extensive surgery to provide a strong enough post for new teeth. After the implant is placed in the jaw, it requires a few months to heal before the dentist can add a permanent crown to the area. If your tooth is merely cracked, chipped, or decayed, a dental implant might be an extreme solution that you do not yet need to consider.

Overlays

Dental overlays, which are also known as inlays or onlays, can be used to fix the damaged part of the tooth. If you opt for an overlay, the dentist places a reparative porcelain substance over the affected area. Overlays leave you with natural looking results that do not require extensive surgery. The porcelain can be made to match the exact color of the surrounding teeth. They are very durable and can be used for large restoration procedures. The dentist can place the overlay in just one visit so you can get the treatment you need without months of visits and procedures. If you want an overlay, you have to have enough of the tooth left to support it.

If you want to get the best oral care, it is essential to find a dentist you trust in Atlanta. When you work with the right oral health professional, you can always get treatments that are designed to target your specific issues. Whether you need dentures or an emergency repair , the right dentist will always do what it takes to give you personalized care.