Chipped Tooth

Dental Problems: Broken or Chipped Teeth - Amherstburg Dental Office

Our teeth are beautiful, strong and powerful. Unfortunately, given enough time with stress and strains like crunching on a piece of candy or ice, they can chip, crack, or break.

Broken teeth may or may not cause immediate pain. If the break reaches the sensitive portion of the tooth, you may experience discomfort when chewing or develop sensitivity to cold or hot drinks. You should visit your dentist to check your breaks and cracks as soon as possible to offer appropriate treatment.

What Causes Teeth To Break?

• Facial trauma
• Chewing hard substances often
• Untreated cavities can cause teeth to be brittle and break
• Bruxism – the excessive grinding of teeth
• Poor hygiene –poor oral care can cause your teeth to crack or chip mostly when your enamel is damaged.
• Poorly aligned teeth

Treatment For Chipped And Broken Teeth

A timely visit to your dentist can save your tooth from more damage or possible infections. The type of treatment available often depends on the extent of the damage to your tooth.

When the break is minor, it may be filled or get a direct bonded restoration. These methods are used when the broken portion does affect to much of the tooth. However, when a break is large and affects a significant portion of the tooth, the most effective treatment method is often a crown. Crowns completely cover the tooth, restoring its normal function and appearance.

Sometimes, the break of the tooth can be so massive that it may be beyond repair. If this is the case, the tooth will need to be extracted and replaced.

If you have a broken tooth, discuss all the available options with your dentist. They will access the extent of the chip or breakage and recommend you the best treatment for your tooth.

Initial Care: What You Should Do When You Break Your Tooth

If you cracked or chipped your tooth, follow these initial care steps after your dentist.

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
• If bleeding occurs, apply pressure on the bleeding part using a wet tea bag or gauze
• Rub your cheek with an icepack if there is any swelling
• If you are experiencing any pain, use over the counter painkillers

The information provided is for general information purposes only and not intended to replace professional care. Please consult your physician or dentist for advice and diagnoses so you can be properly treated for your specific situation.