A broken tooth is a very delicate and stressful condition for many people. It could happen while eating, playing, or due to some accident caused by one. What to do with a broken tooth can make the difference in stopping further damage or discomfort. So, on this blog, we will be in-depth as regards causes, symptoms, but most importantly, Broken tooth treatment.
Causes of Broken Tooth
There are several reasons why a tooth may break, including+
- Biting into hard foods such as ice, candy, or nuts
- Accidents or injuries because of sports and falls.
- Weak enamel due to tooth decay or cavities
- Continuous pressure on teeth due to grinding (bruxism)
- Extensive fillings which weaken the tooth structure.
Signs You Have a Broken Tooth
At times, the cracked tooth would be easy to identify, taking into account an obvious crack and missing piece of the tooth. Other times, these symptoms and signs may be hard to be evident for instance:
- Hurts when you bite or chew.
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Swelling or tenderness around the affected region
- A sharp or saw-tooth edge you can reach with your tongue
What to Do with a Broken Tooth?
If you crack a tooth, do not panic. What you should do immediately is as follows:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it and remove debris.
- Apply a cold compress to your cheek in case of swelling.
- Take the pain reliever if you experience discomfort.
- Do not eat from that side, and if possible, preserve the broken pieces and bring them to your dentist.
- See a dentist as soon as possible for proper broken tooth treatment.
Repairing a Broken Tooth: Treatment Options
The treatment for a broken tooth depends on the severity of the damage. Here are some common options:
1. Dental Bonding
Minor chips or cracks can be dealt with using simple, pain-free dental bonding. The broken area is filled up by applying tooth-colored resin to the area. Then, using a special light, it’s shaped and hardened. This Dental care for broken teeth is fast and efficient for minor repairs.
- Dental Veneers
In case the front tooth is chipped or cracked, veneers would be the ultimate solution. Veneers are thin porcelain layers that cover the thin shell on the front side of the tooth. They will make it look new and smooth.
- Dental Crowns
Larger breaks require a dental crown. A dental crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth to restore its original shape and strength. This is typically utilized if the tooth has a substantial fracture but the root is healthy.
- Root Canal Treatment
If the crack is deep enough to expose the inner pulp of the tooth, then a root canal may be necessary. The pulp is then removed, cleaned, and sealed to prevent infection. A crown is usually put over the tooth afterwards for added protection.
- Tooth Extraction and Replacement
Extraction may be the only option in extreme cases where the tooth cannot be preserved. However, there are several options to replace the missing tooth: dental implants, bridges, or dentures.
How to Prevent a Broken Tooth
Of course, accidents happen, but the following steps could reduce the possibility of breaking a tooth:
- Don’t chew ice, pens, or hard candies.
- If you engage in any contact sport, you should use a mouth guard.
- Practice proper oral hygiene by ensuring that your teeth are well and strong.
- Schedule regular appointments with your dentist so that small problems do not turn into full-blown situations.
- Grinding teeth requires treatment using a night guard.
Why Choose Grand Smiles for Your Dental Care?
A broken tooth should never be ignored. The pain may disappear, but the tooth remains exposed to further injury and infection. If you ever have a broken tooth, your best course of action is to seek professional dental care immediately.
At Grand Smiles, we offer you advanced and comfortable treatments to repair your broken teeth. Our expert dentist in Winnipeg can assess your condition and then provide the best possible solution to restore your smile. Make an appointment with us today, so we can provide you with the care you need!
