A broken tooth can be a painful and stressful experience. Whether it happens from an injury, biting down on something hard, or decay weakening the tooth, it’s important to get treatment as soon as possible. Ignoring a broken tooth can lead to further damage, pain, and even infection. Fortunately, there are several ways to repair a broken tooth and restore your smile.
What to Do If You Break a Tooth
If you break a tooth, the first step is to stay calm and assess the damage. If there is bleeding, rinse your mouth gently with warm water and apply a piece of gauze or a clean cloth to stop the bleeding. If swelling occurs, you can apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce pain and inflammation. It’s also a good idea to avoid eating on that side of your mouth and stick to soft foods until you can see a dentist.
For minor chips, you may not feel pain, but if the break is severe or exposes the inner layers of the tooth, you could experience sensitivity or sharp pain. In some cases, a broken tooth may also cause rough edges that can irritate your tongue or cheeks. No matter how small the break seems, it’s always best to visit a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Dental Treatments for a Broken Tooth
The treatment for a broken tooth depends on the severity of the damage. A dentist will examine your tooth and recommend the best solution based on the type and extent of the break. For minor chips, dental bonding is a common and simple solution. This involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the damaged area, shaping it to match the natural tooth, and hardening it with a special light. Bonding is quick, painless, and can last for several years with proper care.
If a larger portion of the tooth is broken but the root remains intact, a dental crown may be necessary. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and function. Crowns are made from materials like porcelain or ceramic to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. The process typically requires two visits—one to prepare the tooth and take impressions and another to place the permanent crown.
For more severe breaks that reach the inner layers of the tooth, you may need a root canal. If the break exposes the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, bacteria can enter and cause infection. A root canal removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and seals it to prevent further damage. After a root canal, a crown is often placed to protect the weakened tooth.
Preventing Future Tooth Damage
While accidents can happen, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of breaking a tooth. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy. Wear a mouthguard during sports or activities that could result in an impact on the mouth. If you grind your teeth at night, a custom nightguard can help protect your teeth from damage. Maintaining good oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups also helps keep your teeth strong and healthy.
A broken tooth doesn’t have to mean the end of your smile. With the right treatment, your dentist can restore your tooth’s function and appearance, helping you regain comfort and confidence. If you have a broken tooth, don’t wait—schedule an appointment with Dr. Hoffert to get the care you need.