Broken Tooth/Fracture: Getting Your Smile Back in Shape
A broken tooth or tooth fracture can happen unexpectedly due to accidents, biting down on hard foods, or untreated tooth decay. Whether the break is minor or more severe, it’s essential to seek prompt dental care to prevent further damage, pain, or infection.
What Causes a Broken Tooth or Fracture? A tooth may break or fracture for various reasons:
- Accidents or trauma: Sports injuries, falls, or car accidents.
- Biting hard foods: Chewing on ice, hard candy, or other tough foods can cause teeth to crack.
- Tooth decay: Cavities weaken the tooth, making it more prone to breaking.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism): Constant grinding or clenching of teeth can lead to fractures over time.
- Old, worn fillings: Fillings that have weakened over time can cause the tooth to crack or break.
Signs of a Broken Tooth:
- Pain or discomfort: Particularly when chewing or when exposed to hot or cold temperatures.
- Visible crack or chip: A noticeable break or rough edge on your tooth.
- Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to temperature or pressure.
- Loose or displaced tooth: In more severe cases, the tooth may become loose or even fall out.
Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth:
- Dental Fillings or Bonding: Minor fractures or chips can often be repaired with composite resin, a tooth-colored material that restores the shape and function of the tooth.
- Crowns: If a significant portion of the tooth is broken, a dental crown may be placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its strength.
- Root Canal Therapy: If the fracture extends to the tooth’s pulp (inner tissue), a root canal may be needed to treat any infection and save the tooth.
- Veneers: For smaller cosmetic fractures, a veneer can be placed over the front surface of the tooth to restore its appearance.
- Tooth Extraction: In cases where the tooth is too severely damaged to be saved, extraction may be necessary, followed by replacement with a dental implant or bridge.
How to Prevent Further Damage:
- Avoid hard foods: Be cautious when eating hard foods that can cause teeth to fracture.
- Wear a mouthguard: If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can protect your teeth from damage.
- Practice good oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing will help maintain healthy teeth and gums, reducing the risk of fractures from tooth decay.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can a broken tooth heal on its own? No, a broken tooth will not heal on its own. It requires professional treatment to restore its function and prevent infection or further damage.
- Is it painful to repair a broken tooth? The procedure to fix a broken tooth is generally painless as it is done under local anesthesia. Any discomfort afterward can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
- How long will a dental crown or filling last? With proper care, dental crowns and fillings can last many years. Regular dental check-ups will help ensure that your restoration stays in good condition.
Don’t Let a Broken Tooth Affect Your Smile
If you’ve broken or fractured a tooth, schedule an appointment with us right away. Early treatment can help restore your smile and prevent further complications.