A fractured or broken tooth can be an unsettling experience, often accompanied by pain, sensitivity, and concern about potential complications.
Whether the damage is minor, such as a small chip, or more severe, involving a deep fracture, prompt action is crucial for maintaining the health and aesthetics of your smile.
Common Causes of a Broken Tooth
A broken or fractured tooth can occur for various reasons, often unexpectedly.
Understanding these common causes can help preventive measures be taken.
One frequent cause is trauma or injury, where a physical impact from an accident, sports activity, or even a simple fall can lead to a chipped or broken tooth.
Another common culprit is biting complex objects, such as nuts, ice, or hard candies, and non-food items, like pen caps, which can easily result in fractures.
Tooth decay is also a significant factor; teeth weakened by cavities or decay are less capable of withstanding pressure and are thus more susceptible to breaking.
Additionally, old fillings, particularly large or aged ones, pose a risk, as they may weaken the tooth’s structure over time, making it more prone to fractures.
Bruxism, or chronic grinding and clenching of teeth, is often exacerbated during sleep. It can wear down tooth enamel and eventually lead to cracks or fractures.
Immediate Steps to Take if You Break a Tooth
In the unfortunate event of a broken or fractured tooth, immediate actions can help alleviate discomfort, prevent further damage, and protect your oral health until you can visit a dentist.
Begin by rinsing your mouth with warm water to cleanse the area and remove debris. If bleeding occurs, apply gauze to the site for about ten minutes or until it subsides.
To manage pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever, ibuprofen, and apply a cold compress to the cheek outside the affected area to reduce swelling and numb discomfort. If possible, keep any broken pieces of the tooth in a clean, moist cloth or a container of milk or saliva, as your dentist may use these pieces to guide treatment.
Until you receive dental care, avoid using the affected tooth by chewing on the opposite side and sticking to soft foods. If the broken tooth has sharp edges, cover them with dental wax or sugarless gum to prevent cuts or irritation to the inside of your mouth.
Types of Tooth Fractures and Breaks
The type and severity of a tooth fracture determine the appropriate treatment. There are several types of fractures:
- Minor Chips: Small chips or cracks generally impact only the enamel. While often painless, minor chips can have sharp edges and may be cosmetically undesirable, warranting minor cosmetic treatment.
- Cracked Tooth: A cracked tooth may have a deeper fracture, sometimes reaching the pulp, resulting in symptoms like pain during chewing or temperature sensitivity.
- Broken Cusp: This type of fracture involves a piece of the chewing surface breaking off, often near a filling. It usually does not reach the pulp, so pain is minimal, but repair is typically necessary to prevent further structural damage.
- Vertical Root Fracture: These fractures begin at the root and extend upward. They may not cause noticeable symptoms until an infection develops, leading to pain and swelling.
- Severe Breaks or Split Teeth: Severe breaks can expose the tooth’s pulp (nerve), resulting in intense pain and necessitating immediate dental care. A split tooth occurs when a fracture runs from the surface down to the root, often requiring extraction if the damage is extensive.
7 Risks of Having an Untreated Broken or Fractured Tooth
Leaving a broken or fractured tooth untreated can seriously affect oral health and well-being. Here are some of the potential risks of neglecting treatment for a fractured tooth:
1. Infection
One of the most significant risks of an untreated broken or fractured tooth is the development of an infection.
When the protective enamel layer is compromised, bacteria can enter the inner parts of the tooth, including the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. This can lead to an abscess—a painful, pus-filled pocket that forms as the body fights the infection.
An abscess can cause swelling, fever, and severe pain. If left untreated, the disease can spread to surrounding tissues and, in severe cases, can enter the bloodstream, leading to a life-threatening condition known as sepsis.
2. Increased Pain and Discomfort
A broken or fractured tooth can lead to ongoing pain and discomfort, especially when exposed to hot or cold temperatures or pressure from chewing.
Over time, mild discomfort can escalate into constant, throbbing pain.
The longer a tooth is left untreated, the more the nerves within it can become irritated or damaged, resulting in increased sensitivity and chronic pain.
3. Further Tooth Damage
A fracture or break weakens the tooth’s structure, making it more susceptible to further damage.
Chewing on a broken tooth can cause the fracture to deepen or the tooth to break even further, making it more challenging to repair.
Minor fractures that could initially be treated with bonding or a crown may escalate to more severe fractures, eventually requiring root canal treatment or extraction if the damage becomes too extensive.
4. Gum and Jaw Complications
A broken tooth that goes untreated can also lead to gum disease or periodontal issues.
Bacteria can accumulate around the broken area, irritating the gums and potentially causing gingivitis. If left unchecked, this can progress to more severe periodontal disease.
Additionally, a severely infected tooth can lead to complications involving the jawbone.
Infection can spread from the tooth to the jawbone, resulting in bone loss, compromising the surrounding teeth’ stability and weakening the jaw.
5. Tooth Loss
If a broken or fractured tooth is not treated in time, it can lead to irreversible damage, making extraction the only viable option.
Tooth loss affects your smile and confidence and your ability to chew correctly.
Missing teeth can lead to other dental issues, such as shifting of neighbouring teeth, changes in bite alignment, and even issues with speech.
Tooth loss can also lead to bone loss in the jaw over time, complicating future dental restorations.
6. Impact on Overall Health
Oral health is closely linked to overall health, and untreated dental problems, such as a broken or fractured tooth, can have systemic effects.
Chronic infections in the mouth can contribute to inflammation throughout the body, potentially increasing the risk of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes complications, and respiratory issues.
Studies have shown that poor oral health can exacerbate other chronic conditions, making it even more critical to address dental problems promptly.
7. Bad Breath and Aesthetic Issues
A broken tooth can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to bad breath (halitosis) and an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
Furthermore, broken teeth can affect the appearance of your smile, impacting your confidence and self-esteem. Untreated fractures can darken over time, become discoloured, or make your smile look uneven.
The cosmetic implications can affect social interactions, work presentations, and overall quality of life.
Dental Treatments for a Broken Tooth
Depending on the extent of the fracture or break, different treatment options are available:
- Bonding or Filling: For minor chips or surface-level breaks, dental bonding is often the solution. The dentist uses a tooth-coloured resin to restore the missing portion and shape of the tooth. If the break involves more damage but does not reach the pulp, a filling may be used to repair the tooth. Bonding is quick, often completed in one visit, and relatively painless.
- Dental Crown: A crown may be recommended if a large piece of the tooth is broken or a cracked tooth extends deeper. A dental crown is a cap that fits over the damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. Crowns can be made from different materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys, and are custom-fitted to your tooth to ensure a natural appearance.
- Root Canal Treatment: A root canal may be necessary if the fracture reaches the tooth’s pulp. In this procedure, the damaged or infected pulp is removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. A crown is placed over the tooth to protect it from further damage. A root canal helps save a tooth that might need to be extracted.
- Extraction: In cases where the tooth is severely damaged and cannot be saved, an extraction may be the only viable option. This is common with vertical root fractures or when a tooth is split. Once the tooth is extracted, options for replacement, such as a dental implant or bridge, can be considered to maintain oral function and aesthetics.
- Veneers: A veneer may be used if the damage is primarily cosmetic, such as a small chip on a front tooth. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that cover the tooth’s front surface, restoring its appearance.
Preventing Tooth Fractures
While not all tooth fractures can be prevented, especially those due to accidents, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk:
- Avoid Biting Hard Objects: Avoid biting hard foods like ice, candies, or other objects like pens, as this can increase the risk of breaking your teeth.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you participate in contact sports, wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard can protect your teeth from trauma and injury.
- Manage Bruxism: If you grind your teeth, especially during sleep, talk to your dentist about wearing a mouthguard at night to protect your teeth from excessive force.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to keep your teeth strong and prevent decay. Strong teeth are less prone to fractures.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Routine dental checkups can help catch small cracks or issues before they become more severe. Your dentist can identify weak spots and offer preventive solutions to keep your teeth healthy.
When to See a Dentist
A fractured or broken tooth requires professional attention as soon as possible to avoid complications like infections or further damage.
Even if the break seems minor or isn’t causing pain, it’s essential to consult a dentist. Delaying treatment can result in more complex and costly procedures in the future.
If you experience any of the following symptoms after a fracture, contact a dentist immediately:
- Severe pain or discomfort.
- Swelling around the broken tooth.
- Pus or any other sign of infection.
- Significant bleeding that doesn’t stop.
Final Thoughts
A fractured or broken tooth is more than just an inconvenience—it is a dental emergency that requires timely intervention.
Acting quickly can help minimize pain, prevent infection, and save your tooth.
The key is to remain calm, protect the affected area, and seek professional dental care immediately.
If you or someone you know has suffered a broken tooth, our skilled dentists in Ormeau are ready to provide prompt, compassionate care and help restore your smile.
Contact Ormeau Dental today for expert assistance and regain your confidence with a healthy, pain-free smile.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional dental advice. While Ormeau Dental strives to offer accurate and up-to-date information, this content is not a substitute for a consultation with a qualified dental professional. If you experience a broken tooth or any dental emergency, we recommend contacting your dentist promptly for personalized care and treatment.
