It’s a familiar sinking feeling we all experience when the worst happens: you bite down and suddenly feel the sharp pain of a broken tooth. It’s not only agonising, but it can also be overwhelming if you don’t know how to go about treating your broken tooth. But have no fear! In this blog post, we’ll discuss what treatments are available so you can enjoy life without worrying about your tooth issue. With the right advice from professionals and an understanding of all the treatment options out there, fixing your chipped or broken tooth will be simple!
Causes of a Broken Tooth
In this section, we’ll explore the most common causes of a broken or chipped tooth and what you can do to prevent this from happening to you.
Trauma
One of the most recurring causes of a broken or chipped tooth is trauma to the mouth. This can include anything from a fall or sports injury to a car accident. The force of the impact can cause a tooth to fracture or break, and the extent of the damage will depend on the severity of the trauma. If you experience any trauma to the mouth, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible to assess the damage and provide any necessary tooth repair.
Decay
Another common cause of a broken tooth is tooth decay. When left untreated, decay can weaken the tooth structure, making it more susceptible to breaking.
If you have a cavity or other untreated dental issue, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is important to prevent further damage or infection.
A dental filling or root canal may sometimes be necessary to treat decay and prevent the tooth from breaking.
Biting down on hard objects
Many people have bitten down hard objects like ice, candy, or popcorn kernels at some point. While this may seem safe, it can cause a tooth to crack or break. If you have a habit of biting down on hard foods, it’s important to be mindful of this and try to avoid doing so if possible.
Wear and tear
Over time, teeth can become weakened from everyday wear and tear. This can be caused by various factors, including grinding teeth, using a hard toothbrush, or eating acidic foods.
Types and Diagnosis of a Broken Tooth
This section will explore the signs of a broken tooth, the different types of breaks, and how your dentist can diagnose and repair it.
Types of Tooth Breaks
There are several types of tooth breaks, each with its own symptoms and treatment options. Cracked teeth are when the teeth have a visible line that is usually painful when biting down. Chipped teeth are when a piece of the enamel breaks off but doesn’t affect the tooth’s root. A fractured cusp is when a piece of the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off, and a split tooth is when the tooth has a crack that extends to the root. Your dentist can diagnose the type of break and recommend the best treatment plan.
Diagnosis
To diagnose a broken tooth, your dentist may take X-rays to see if the break has affected the tooth’s root. They may also visually inspect and probe the tooth for any signs of sensitivity or pain. Treatment options include bonding, where a composite resin is applied to the tooth, or a crown, a cap that goes over the entire tooth. Sometimes, a root canal treatment may be necessary if the break has affected the tooth’s nerve.
Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth
This section will explore the various treatment options available to fix a broken tooth, the benefits, and the costs to help you make an informed decision when seeking dental care.
Dental bonding Treatment
Dental bonding may be the best option if your broken tooth is a minor chip or crack. Dental bonding is an affordable dental treatment to fix a broken tooth that involves bonding a tooth-coloured resin to the broken tooth. The bonding process is quick, and the results are impressive, making it an excellent option for improving the tooth’s appearance. The cost of dental bonding varies based on the severity of the damage and the dental clinic’s location.
Dental Implant
If the dentist cannot fix a broken tooth that needs to be extracted, a dental implant may be necessary to fill the gap in your smile. Dental implants are titanium screws that are adjusted into the jawbone and act as artificial tooth roots. Once the implant has fused with the bone, a crown can be attached, restoring the appearance and function of the lost tooth.
Crown Placement
If the break is more severe and the tooth’s structural integrity is compromised, your dentist may recommend dental crown placement.
Dental crowns are caps that cover the tooth and restore its shape, size, and strength.
The dental crowns are made from materials such as metals, porcelain, or zirconium. The cost of dental crowns varies depending on the type of material used and the dental clinic’s location.
Root Canal Treatment
If your broken tooth’s pulp is exposed or infected, your dentist may recommend root canal treatment to save the tooth. The infected tissue is removed during root canal treatment, and the tooth’s root is cleaned and sealed.
After the root canals, the tooth is restored by placing a crown. The cost of root canal procedures varies depending on the extent of the damage, the location of the dental clinic, and other factors.
Tooth Extraction
The last option is tooth extraction if the tooth is severely disfigured and cannot be saved. Tooth extraction is an affordable and common dental treatment that removes the damaged tooth.
After removing the tooth, your dentist may recommend implant placement, dentures, or bridges to replace the missing tooth. The cost of tooth extraction differs depending on the location of the dental clinic and the tooth’s condition.
Veneers
If the chipped or broken teeth are in the front of your mouth and affect your smile, veneers may be a suitable treatment option. A veneer is a thin porcelain or composite resin material shell placed over the tooth’s surface.
Veneers are an excellent cracked tooth repair option for improving the tooth’s appearance and restoring confidence. The cost of veneers differs depending on the type of material used and the location of the dental clinic.
Prevention Tips for Avoiding Further Damage to Your Teeth
This blog section will discuss some of the best ways to prevent further damage to your teeth after a cracked or broken tooth.
Brush and Floss Regularly
Brushing two times a day and flossing at least once daily can help prevent further tooth damage. Flossing is also important since it helps remove food particles and plaque from hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth.
Avoid Sugary and Acidic Foods
Sugary and acidic foods and beverages can damage your teeth by eroding the enamel and increasing the risk of cavities.
Avoid consuming sugary and acidic foods, such as candy, soda, and fruit, high in sugar or acid. Instead, go for sugar-free options like sugarless chewing gum.
Wear a Mouthguard When Playing Sports
Wearing a mouthguard can help safeguard your teeth from further damage if you play sports. A mouthguard can help absorb the shock of an impact and prevent your teeth from chipping or breaking. Make sure to choose a mouthguard that fits well and is comfortable.
Conclusion
Broken teeth can seriously impact your mental and physical health, so you must take care of them as soon as possible. While painkillers and home remedies may ease the discomfort, it is essential that you ultimately see a professional for treatment.
We encourage anyone experiencing toothache-related pain to contact our practice at (02) 4062 8706 for an appointment with one of our experienced dentists. From digital X-rays to restorative dental treatments such as porcelain veneers or crowns, our team will strive to provide personalised treatment that meets your needs. Please remember that seeking timely professional intervention is key to ensuring long-term oral health.
References
Chipped, broken or cracked tooth – NHS
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/chipped-broken-or-cracked-tooth/
Chipped or Broken Tooth Treatment & Repair
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/repairing-a-chipped-or-broken-tooth
Fractured Tooth (Cracked Tooth): What It Is, Symptoms & Repair
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21628-fractured-tooth-cracked-tooth
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