Broken Tooth
Table of Contents
Moggill Dental
How to deal with a Broken Tooth
A broken tooth can be a painful and unpleasant experience. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this condition.
It can be caused by a number of different factors, such as trauma, decay, or biting down on something hard. Regardless of the cause, a broken tooth can be a painful and uncomfortable experience.
If left untreated, it can lead to further dental problems, such as infection and decay. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What Causes a Broken Tooth?
There are several factors that can cause a broken tooth, including:
- Trauma: A blow to the face or mouth can cause a tooth to break or chip.
- Decay: If a tooth is weakened by decay, it may be more susceptible to breaking.
- Biting down on something hard: Eating something hard, such as ice or hard candy, can cause a tooth to break.
- Grinding teeth: Grinding your teeth can wear down the enamel and cause teeth to break or chip.
What are the Symptoms of a Broken Tooth?
The symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the break. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain: It can be painful, especially when chewing or biting down.
- Sensitivity: The broken tooth may be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
- Sharp edges: The damaged tooth may have sharp edges that can irritate the tongue or cheek.
- Swelling: If the break is severe, the surrounding gum tissue may become swollen.
How is a Broken Tooth Diagnosed?
If you suspect that you have a broken tooth, you should make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will perform a visual examination of the tooth and may take X-rays to determine the extent of the damage. Based on the severity of the break, your dentist will recommend the appropriate treatment.
Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth
The treatment for a broken tooth will depend on the severity of the break. Some common treatment options include:
Bonding: If the break is minor, your dentist may be able to repair the tooth using a tooth-colored resin.
Crown: If the break is more severe, your dentist may recommend a crown to cover and protect the damaged tooth.
Root canal: If the break has reached the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue.
Extraction: If the break is too severe to be repaired, the tooth may need to be extracted.
See your dentist as soon as possible
It can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but there are several treatment options available to repair the damage. If you suspect that you have a broken tooth, you should make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further dental problems. By taking proper care of your teeth and seeking treatment when necessary, you can maintain
Definition of Dental Terminology
Fractured tooth
A tooth that has a crack or break in its structure.
Cracked tooth
A tooth that has a visible crack or fracture, which can be seen with the naked eye or under a microscope.
Chipped tooth
A tooth that has a small piece missing from the edge or surface.
Broken tooth
A tooth that has been completely fractured, often into multiple pieces.
Avulsed tooth
A tooth that has been completely knocked out of the mouth.
Enamel fracture
A crack or break in the outer layer of the tooth, known as the enamel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Most frequent questions and answers on restorative dentistry
Q. Is a broken tooth a dental emergency?
It depends on the severity of the break. If the break is causing severe pain or bleeding, you should seek emergency dental care. Otherwise, you should make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Q. Can a broken tooth heal on its own?
No, a damaged tooth cannot heal on its own. If left untreated, a broken tooth can lead to further dental problems, such as infection and decay.
Q. How can I prevent a broken tooth?
You can prevent it by avoiding hard foods, wearing a mouthguard during sports, and seeking treatment for dental problems, such as decay or grinding.
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