Broken teeth occur when there is a crack or chip in the enamel, the hard outer layer of the tooth. Enamel is strong, but it can be damaged by an injury, vigorous chewing, or grinding your teeth.
If the break is severe, it can extend into the inner layers of the tooth, causing pain and sensitivity. In some cases, a cracked or broken tooth can also lead to an infection that may need an urgent dental care.
Causes of a Cracked Tooth
There are many different actions that can cause a broken or cracked tooth, including;
- Chewing on hard objects, like ice or candy
- Biting down on something hard
- Trauma to the face or mouth
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Clenching your teeth too tightly
Symptoms of a Broken Tooth
The most common symptom of a broken tooth is pain. You may also experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, as well as sweet foods. If the break is severe, you may see a crack or chip in your tooth. In some cases, a broken tooth can cause bleeding or swelling in the gums.
Broken Tooth First Aid
It is essential to see a dentist whenever you have a broken tooth. However, in the meantime, there are some things you can do to manage your symptoms and protect your tooth;
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area around the broken tooth
- Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling
- Take over-the-counter pain medication if you’re in pain
- If the break has caused bleeding, apply pressure to the area with a clean cloth
- Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the broken tooth
- Eat soft foods until you can see your dentist
Treatment for Broken Teeth
When making a treatment decision for a broken tooth, your dentist will consider several factors, including;
The location of the break
A break that occurs near the gumline may be more difficult to treat than one that is in the middle of the tooth.
The severity of the break
A small crack or chip will require a different treatment than a more serious fracture.
The health of the tooth
If the tooth is infected, a root canal may be necessary.
7 ways to Fix a Chipped or Broken Tooth
The best way to treat a broken tooth actually depends on the type of break and the severity. The available dental treatment options include the following:
- Bonding: Dental bonding is a process where your dentist applies a tooth-coloured resin to the broken tooth. The resin is then hardened with a light, and it bonds to the natural tooth structure. Bonding can repair both small and large breaks, and it can also be used to change the shape or colour of your teeth.
- Dental Crown: If you have a severe break or fracture, your dentist may recommend a crown. Dental crowns are artificial caps that go over damaged teeth. A crown can protect the tooth from further damage and restore its function and appearance.
- Dental Implant: A dental implant can be a good option if the tooth is too damaged. A dentist can recommend removing the cracked tooth and replacing it with an implant. Visit this link to learn more.
- Veneers: Veneers are thin, porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth. Veneers can be used to repair small cracks and chips, as well as change the shape or colour of your teeth
- Root Canal Treatment: If the break has caused an infection in the tooth, a root canal may be necessary. A root canal treatment is a procedure where the infected root tissue is removed from the tooth, which is then sealed.
- Filling: A filling can be used to repair a small break or chip in the tooth. A filling is a procedure where your dentist removes the damaged tooth material and fills the area with a tooth-coloured resin.
- Dental sealant: A dental sealant is a clear or white plastic coating that is applied to the chewing surface of the tooth. Sealants act as a barrier, protecting the tooth from bacteria and food particles. Sealants can also be used to fix tiny cracks and fissures in the tooth.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix a Broken Tooth?
The cost of repairing a broken tooth will depend on the severity of the break, the type of treatment, and your dental insurance coverage. In general, bonding and fillings are less expensive than crowns and implants. Dental insurance typically covers a portion of the cost of treatment. For example, if you have a $100 deductible, you will be responsible for the first $100 of your dental treatment.
If you have a broken tooth, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. There are several treatment options available, and the sooner you seek treatment, the greater the chance of saving the tooth. Even if you don’t have insurance, there are many options available to help you pay for treatment. Don’t let a broken tooth ruin your smile!
Contact My Local Dentists Northmead on (02) 9630 9996 today to book your appointment.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
How do you know if you have a cracked tooth?
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322015
Cracked tooth diagnosis and treatment: An alternative paradigm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4439863/
First aid for knocked-out teeth
https://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/healthy-living/teeth-and-gums/oral-health-first-aid/first-aid-knocked-out-teeth
Dental First Aid – How to handle a dental emergency
https://www.ada.org.au/getattachment/Your-Dental-Health/Resources-for-Professionals/Resources-for-Adults-31-64/dental-first-aid-how-to-handle-a-dental-emergency/Dental-first-aid,-how-to-handle-a-dental-emergency.pdf.aspx
Dental treatments
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/dental-treatments/