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Broken Tooth

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Repair and restore broken teeth with expert treatments for a perfect smile.
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About the treatment

A broken tooth is a common dental issue that can result from trauma, biting on hard foods, or underlying tooth decay. Depending on the severity of the break, a fractured tooth can cause pain, sensitivity, difficulty chewing, and an increased risk of infection.
If left untreated, a broken tooth may worsen, leading to nerve damage, tooth loss, or further complications. Fortunately, modern dental treatments can repair and restore a broken tooth, preserving both function and appearance.

Causes of a Broken Tooth

Several factors can contribute to a tooth breaking, cracking, or chipping, including:

  • Biting on Hard Foods – Ice, nuts, or hard candies can crack or chip teeth.
  • Trauma or Injury – Falls, accidents, or sports injuries can break teeth.
  • Weakened Tooth Structure – Decay, large fillings, or previous dental work may make teeth more vulnerable to fractures.
  • Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) – Excessive grinding weakens enamel, leading to fractures.
  • Sudden Temperature Changes – Eating extremely hot and cold foods can cause micro-cracks.

Types of Broken Teeth

  • 1. Chipped Tooth
  • A small portion of enamel breaks off.
  • Often painless but may cause rough edges or minor sensitivity.
  • Cracked Tooth
  • A visible or microscopic crack runs through the tooth.
  • Can lead to pain when biting or temperature sensitivity.
  • 3. Broken Cusp
  • The pointed part of a tooth (cusp) breaks off.
  • Usually affects molars and does not damage the inner pulp.
  • 4. Severe Break or Fractured Tooth
  • A large portion of the tooth breaks, exposing the dentin or pulp.
  • Can cause severe pain and sensitivity.
  • 5. Split Tooth
  • A crack extends below the gum line, dividing the tooth into sections.
  • Requires immediate dental treatment to prevent extraction.
  • 6. Vertical Root Fracture
  • A crack that begins in the tooth root and extends upward.
  • May not be visible, but often causes gum swelling or infection.

Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth

  • 1. Dental Bonding (For Small Chips & Minor Cracks)
  • Composite resin is applied to reshape and restore the tooth.
  • A quick, affordable, and non-invasive solution.
  • 2. Dental Crowns (For Large Breaks or Fractures)
  • A custom-made cap protects and strengthens the damaged tooth.
  • Restores both function and appearance.
  • 3. Veneers (For Front Tooth Damage)
  • A thin porcelain shell covers minor cracks or chips on front teeth.
  • Provides a natural and long-lasting aesthetic improvement.
  • 4. Root Canal Therapy (For Severe Breaks Involving the Pulp)
  • A large portion of the tooth breaks, exposing the dentin or pulp.
  • Can cause severe pain and sensitivity.
  • Root Canal Therapy (For Severe Breaks Involving the Pulp)
  • Removes infected pulp if the tooth nerve is exposed.
  • Prevents infection and further damage, preserving the natural tooth.
  • 5. Tooth Extraction (For Irreparable Breaks)
  • If a tooth is severely fractured beyond repair, extraction may be necessary.
  • Replacement options include dental implants, bridges, or dentures.

Signs & Symptoms of a Broken Tooth

While accidents happen, you can take steps to minimise the risk of breaking a tooth.

  • Avoid chewing on hard objects (ice, pens, or hard candies).
  • Wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports.
  • Treat teeth grinding (bruxism) with a custom nightguard.
  • Maintain regular dental check-ups to detect weakened teeth.
  • Practice good oral hygiene to prevent decay and weakened enamel.

How to Prevent a Broken Tooth

While some cases of dental crowding are genetic and unavoidable, certain measures can help prevent worsening misalignment.

  • Early Dental Check-Ups – Identifying crowding early allows for preventive orthodontic treatments.
  • Encourage Proper Oral Habits – Avoid thumb sucking or pacifier use beyond age 3.
  • Retainers After Treatment – After orthodontic treatment, retainers help keep teeth in position.
  • Maintain Regular Dental Visits – Professional monitoring ensures timely intervention if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do if I break a tooth?

Rinse your mouth, avoid chewing on the damaged tooth, and visit a dentist as soon as possible.

No, a broken tooth cannot regenerate or heal itself—professional treatment is needed.

Mild crowding may be improved with clear aligners, contouring, or retainers, but moderate to severe cases usually require braces.

It depends—minor chips can wait, but pain, bleeding, or exposed nerves require urgent care.

Yes, untreated cracks can spread and lead to further damage or infection.

Yes, if bacteria enter the crack, it can lead to decay, abscesses, or gum infection.

Treatments like bonding or veneers take one visit, while crowns or root canals may require two.

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