Broken teeth are a common problem. In the United States, over five million teeth are knocked out or broken every year.
While it might be tempting to try to remove a broken tooth yourself, it’s essential to seek professional dental care. Attempting to pull or remove a broken tooth at home can lead to serious complications like infection, excessive bleeding, and further damage to the surrounding tissues.
This article will discuss the different types of broken teeth, what to do immediately after a tooth breaks, the procedures dentists use to remove a broken tooth or pieces of tooth, and how to prevent broken teeth from happening in the first place.
What counts as a broken tooth?
Not all broken teeth are created equal. Here are the different types of dental fractures that could occur:
- Chipped tooth: A minor fracture that usually affects only the enamel. These chips usually require minimal treatment.
- Cracked tooth: A fracture that extends from the chewing surface toward the root. These can be hard to detect and may get worse over time.
- Fractured cusp: Damage to one of the pointed parts on the chewing surface of a tooth, often caused by biting down hard on something.
- Vertical root fracture: A fracture that starts at the root and extends toward the chewing surface. This type of fracture usually means you’ll need to have the tooth pulled.
Minor chips and cracks can often be fixed without too much trouble. But if the fracture extends below the gumline, you may need more complex treatment, including extraction.
Immediate steps after breaking a tooth
Breaking a tooth can be alarming, and knowing what to do right away can help minimize the damage and discomfort.
First aid measures
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection.
- Apply a cold compress to your cheek to minimize swelling and ease pain.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. It’s best to avoid aspirin.
What to avoid
- Don’t try to wiggle the broken tooth or remove it yourself. You could damage the area further or increase the risk of infection.
- Avoid eating hard or chewy foods that might irritate the area.
Seeking professional help
Get in touch with your dentist or an emergency dentist as soon as possible. The earlier you get help, the better your chances of saving the tooth.
What a dentist will do: Extraction and restoration
The extraction process
First, your dentist will inject a local anesthetic into the area around the broken tooth. This will numb the area completely so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
Then, the dentist will gently wiggle the tooth to loosen it and carefully remove it, along with any remaining pieces. The dentist will take care to minimize any trauma to the surrounding gums and bone.
Finally, the dentist will thoroughly clean and disinfect the empty socket to prevent infection and help it heal properly.
Restoration options
Once the tooth is removed, you’ll want to consider ways to restore your smile and the functionality of your teeth. Here are a few options:
- Dental implant: This is a permanent replacement that involves surgically placing a titanium post into your jawbone.
- Bridge: A bridge is a fixed set of artificial teeth that fills the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth. It’s anchored to the teeth on either side of the gap.
- Partial denture: A partial denture is a removable appliance that can replace multiple missing teeth. It’s a more affordable option, but it’s not as stable as implants or bridges.
When Is a Tooth Too Broken to Save?
Sometimes, a dentist can’t save a broken tooth. Here’s what they look for:
- Severity of the Fracture: A tooth broken below the gumline, split vertically, or broken right to the gumline may be beyond repair.
- Extent of Decay: Severe decay inside the tooth can weaken it.
- Repeated Infections: If the tissues around the tooth keep getting infected, extraction may be necessary.
- Bone Loss: Significant bone loss around the tooth makes it hard to support fillings or crowns.
How to keep your teeth from breaking
You can do a lot to keep your teeth strong and healthy. Consider these tips:
- Don’t chew on ice, hard candies, or other hard foods.
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports or doing activities that could injure your face.
- Take care of your teeth by brushing and flossing.
- Never use your teeth to open packages or crack nuts.
- See a dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Catching and treating decay early can prevent bigger problems.
The Bottom Line
If you break a tooth, don’t delay. See your dentist as soon as possible to avoid further complications. While it’s not always avoidable, you can also take steps to protect your teeth from fractures in the first place.
Proactive dental care can significantly reduce your risk, so be sure to schedule regular checkups with your dentist and adopt healthy oral hygiene habits. Your teeth will thank you!