How to manage a cracked or broken tooth

You might have bit into something hard or got hit in the mouth by accident. There are any number of reasons you may have suffered a cracked or broken tooth.

The enamel that covers your teeth is hard, but its strength does have limits. Impact or decay can damage a tooth over time. If you happen to suffer a broken or cracked tooth, no need to panic as your dentist can help fix it.

Caring for a Cracked or Broken Tooth

If you have a tooth that is cracked or broken, make sure you see your dentist as soon as possible. If not, you could further damage the tooth or it could become infected.

When the damaged tooth is causing you pain, it is fine to take over-the-counter pain medications. You can also rinse your mouth with salt water. Avoid eating hard foods and otherwise biting down on the broken tooth.

When you get to the dentist office, they will determine what type of damage your tooth has suffered.

Split Tooth

This is a tooth with two distinct segments that can be separated. A split tooth will have to be extracted as it cannot be saved.

Fractured Cusp

When a piece of the chewing surface breaks off, it is called a fractured cusp. It usually isn’t painful.

Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth will have a crack that extends from the chewing surface to the root. If a cracked tooth is not fixed, it can get worse and may result in the loss of the tooth. Early treatment is critical in saving a cracked tooth.

Once a diagnosis has been established, your dentist will determine the treatment that is best.

Veneers

Basically, veneers are covers for your tooth. Veneers are bonded to the front of the tooth and with proper care, will last up to 30 years.

Dental Bonding

Composite bonding is one way to repair teeth that are cracked, chipped, discolored or decayed. Dental bonding takes very little preparation and the use of anesthesia is often not necessary unless the tooth being repaired is decayed.

Dental bonding is a common and rather inexpensive procedure and can usually be performed in one office visit.

Crowns

If you have a tooth that is badly chipped or otherwise damaged and you are suffering pain, crowns are a common treatment.

A crown is a cap that covers and protects the damaged tooth. It also improves its appearance. There are several types of crowns that can be used including resin, porcelain, ceramic and stainless steel. There are pros and cons for each type, your dentist will address your specific situation and make a recommendation of which type is best for you.

Root Canal

A root canal involves clearing out decayed tooth matter and removing the nerve. If you have a tooth that has a crack that extends into the pulp, it will likely be treated with a root canal.

Dental Implant

If you have a tooth that is damaged beyond treatment, it cannot be saved. After the tooth has been extracted, you may wish to have it replaced with a dental implant.

Dental implants take the place of missing teeth, acting as tooth and root, they are securely placed in the jawbone for a lasting fit.

If you have suffered a damaged tooth, call your dentist as soon as possible.

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