
Although our teeth are designed to be durable, they are still susceptible to damage from a variety of causes. Teeth may break due to tooth decay, trauma from accidents or sports, tooth grinding (bruxism), or biting into hard objects. Over time, erosion from acidic substances can also weaken teeth, making them more vulnerable to fractures.
Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several options for repairing broken teeth, each tailored to the specific type of damage. Experienced dentists use advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to assess the problem and recommend the most appropriate treatment.
Categories of Broken Teeth
There are generally three main categories of broken teeth:
- Cracked Teeth: A crack may appear in the tooth but the tooth remains in place. This can cause pain, especially when chewing, and may lead to infection if not treated.
- Chipped Teeth: A small piece of the tooth breaks off, often due to an impact on the mouth. Chipped teeth may or may not cause pain, but they can be unsightly.
- Split Teeth: A tooth that has cracked so severely that it splits into two parts. Such damage is often beyond repair, and extraction may be necessary.
Many patients first become aware of a broken tooth through the sensation of a rough or sharp edge when they run their tongue over it. Pain may not be immediate but can develop if the tooth is left untreated.
Why You Shouldn’t Treat a Broken Tooth at Home
It’s important to seek professional help rather than attempting to treat a broken tooth yourself. Dentists have access to advanced materials, such as composite resins and dental crowns, and are trained to repair damaged teeth effectively. Delaying professional treatment can lead to more serious complications such as infection, abscesses, and loss of the tooth.
How Dentists Repair Damaged Teeth
The treatment approach depends on the extent and type of damage sustained. With the help of newer technologies like digital imaging and laser treatments, dentists can diagnose and treat broken teeth more accurately and efficiently than ever before.
1. Cracked Teeth
For minor cracks that affect only the enamel, a dentist may smooth the crack and polish the tooth to prevent further damage. If the crack extends into the dentin or pulp, a filling or dental crown may be needed. Severe cases may require root canal treatment to remove damaged tissue inside the tooth and prevent infection. Laser technology has been increasingly used to ensure precision in these procedures, according to research published in the British Dental Journal (BDJ).
2. Chipped Teeth
Minor chips may require only cosmetic polishing or dental bonding, a procedure where a tooth-coloured resin is applied to the tooth and then hardened with a special light. For more significant chips, especially those affecting the chewing surface, a crown or onlay may be necessary to restore function and appearance. Dentists are increasingly using CEREC technology, which enables them to design and create custom crowns in a single visit.
3. Serious Breaks
In cases of severe trauma where a large portion of the tooth is broken, immediate treatment is required, particularly if the nerve is exposed. Root canal therapy is usually needed in such cases to remove the nerve and prevent infection. The tooth is then restored with a crown. If the damage is too extensive, extraction may be necessary, with dental implants, bridges, or dentures used as a replacement.
Newer Technologies in Dentistry
- Digital Imaging: High-resolution digital X-rays and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) allow dentists to get a detailed view of the tooth’s structure, enabling more accurate treatment.
- Laser Dentistry: Lasers offer precise removal of decayed or damaged tissue with minimal pain and faster healing times. There has been increasing use of laser treatments for managing soft tissue injuries and performing root canals.
- CAD/CAM Technology: Computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) systems help dentists create more accurate crowns and restorations.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Broken Teeth
Preventing damage to your teeth is the best course of action. Some dental tips from the NHS include:
- Wear a mouthguard: If you play sports or grind your teeth (bruxism), a custom-fitted mouthguard from your dentist can protect your teeth from fractures.
- Avoid hard foods: Biting into hard objects like ice, hard sweets, or bones can lead to fractures.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can prevent decay that weakens teeth.
- Manage bruxism: If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about options for managing the condition, such as a nightguard.
Conclusion
With advancements in dental technology and treatment options, dentists can now repair broken teeth more efficiently and with greater precision than ever before. Treatments range from simple polishing to more complex procedures like root canal therapy and dental implants. If you have a broken tooth, don’t delay in seeking professional help. Early treatment can prevent further complications and restore both the function and appearance of your smile.