What is a Broken Teeth?
A broken teeth means that part of your tooth has chipped, cracked, or completely broken due to an injury, accident, or other dental issue. Sometimes the damage is minor, but in many cases, it can expose the inner layers of the tooth and cause pain, sensitivity, or infection.
Causes of Broken Teeth
- Accidents or Injuries – Falls, sports injuries, or accidents can break or knock out a tooth.
- Biting Hard Objects – Chewing on ice, hard candy, or bones may crack a tooth.
- Tooth Decay (Cavities) – A weakened tooth from decay can break more easily.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) – Habitual grinding or clenching wears down teeth and makes them prone to breaking.
- Old Dental Fillings – Large or worn fillings can reduce the strength of a tooth.
- Sudden Temperature Changes – Eating something very hot and then drinking something cold can stress and crack the enamel.
Problems Caused by a Broken Tooth
- Pain or Sensitivity (especially to hot, cold, or sweet foods)
- Sharp edges that may cut the tongue or cheek
- Difficulty chewing on the affected side
- Infection of the inner part of the tooth (pulp) is exposed
- Cosmetic issues (a visible broken tooth affects your smile and confidence)
Treatment Options for Broken Teeth
The treatment depends on how badly the tooth is broken:
- Minor Chips or Cracks
- Solution: Dental Bonding or Filling – The dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to repair and reshape the tooth.
- Moderate Breaks
- Solution: Dental Crown (Cap) – If a large portion of the tooth is broken but the root is healthy, a crown is placed to restore shape and strength.
- Deep Cracks or Nerve Involvement
- Solution: Root Canal Treatment + Crown – If the pulp (nerve) is exposed or infected, root canal therapy is done to save the tooth before covering it with a crown.
- Severe Breaks (Tooth Beyond Saving)
- Solution: Tooth Extraction & Replacement – If the tooth cannot be saved, it is removed and replaced with:
- Dental Implant
- Bridge
- Denture
- Solution: Tooth Extraction & Replacement – If the tooth cannot be saved, it is removed and replaced with:
- Broken Front Teeth (Cosmetic Concern)
- Solution: Veneers or Cosmetic Bonding – Thin porcelain or composite layers are applied to restore the natural look.
What to Do If You Break a Tooth (First Aid Tips)
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with gauze.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Save any broken pieces (if possible) and bring them to the dentist.
- Visit your dentist as soon as possible to prevent infection or further damage.
Takeaway:
A broken tooth is not just a cosmetic issue – it can lead to pain, infection, and long-term problems if ignored. Modern dentistry offers several painless and effective treatments to restore your tooth and smile.