The lifespan of dental restorations varies and depends on:
No restoration lasts forever, but good planning and care can significantly extend longevity.
Back to Longevity & Maintenance
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, a cracked tooth and a fractured tooth are not always the same thing, and they can behave very differently.
A cracked tooth has a fine crack within the tooth structure that has not caused a piece of the tooth to break away.
With early diagnosis, cracked teeth can often be protected before the crack worsens.
A fractured tooth involves loss of tooth structure, where part of the tooth has broken away.
The extent and direction of the fracture determine whether the tooth can be restored.
Cracks often develop slowly over time, whereas fractures represent a later stage where the tooth has already failed structurally. Early intervention can sometimes prevent a crack from becoming a fracture.
How cracked and fractured teeth are managed:
Maintenance may include:
Small interventions carried out early can often prevent larger problems later.
Teeth can fracture when they are weakened or placed under excessive load. Common reasons include tooth wear, large fillings that reduce the strength of the remaining tooth, repeated grinding or clenching, and biting on hard foods or objects.
Our focus is on maintaining restorations proactively rather than reacting to failure. By monitoring restorations over time and addressing issues early, we aim to protect both your teeth and any existing dental work for as long as possible.
Not all tooth damage is the same. Detecting and treating cracks early can help prevent more serious fractures and more extensive treatment.
We’re proud to be a trusted part of our patients’ oral health journeys. Explore their testimonials to see how we’re creating positive dental experiences – one smile at a time.
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I required some extensive dental work, which I had been catastrophising in my head for some time now. Having finally plucked up the courage, I consider myself extremely fortunate to have been cared for so professionally & competently by Lorna…
I had a great experience with Lorna. She was very competent, gentle and took the time to explain everything clearly. I’d highly recommend Lorna to anyone who feels anxious about visiting the dentist!
I’ve been a patient at Harcourt Dental Clinic for about 5 years now, and I couldn’t be happier with the service I’ve received. From the friendly and welcoming staff to the professional and skilled dentists, every visit has been a…
Martina is an excellent hygienist, professional, kind, and thorough. She made me feel completely at ease and did a fantastic job with my cleaning. I highly recommend her!
I would highly recommend this dental practice. They are very professional in every sense. Special shout-out for Cianna & Kevin, two highly skilled dentists.
I strongly recommend this dental practice. The reception staff are always friendly and polite. Dr Lorna Mahon and her assistant have been excellent in treating a quite difficult dental issue with great care and professionalism.
If you have a broken tooth or a cracked tooth, contact us for an assessment and a clear plan.
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