Broken teeth / Broken tooth in London
Human teeth are very strong and durable but accidents can happen anywhere and at any time and, unfortunately, broken teeth are fairly common.
Causes of broken teeth
The most common causes of broken teeth or a broken tooth are accidents and trauma, fighting, trips and falls, sports injuries and biting down on something hard. Teeth already weakened by cavities are more prone to damage.
What are the symptoms and when should I see my dentist?
In some cases, when the tooth chips you do not feel any pain, but you may notice a jagged or uneven edge on the tooth. Chips can usually be repaired easily and do not require urgent attention, but larger cracks or fractures can warrant immediate care. This is because they can bring on pain especially when biting or chewing. Fractures can also cause increased tooth sensitivity, most often when drinking hot or cold foods or drinks.
If your tooth is cracked or broken, it is important to see your dentist as quickly as possible. It may be possible for them to repair the tooth and prevent any further damage. On your way to the dentist you can ease pain by applying an ice pack to your mouth and stem bleeding by holding a piece of gauze or damp cotton wool against the affected tooth.
What can be done?
If the tooth is only chipped or has a small crack no treatment may be required, but you may wish to arrange treatment to improve the aesthetics of the tooth at a later date.
If the tooth is cracked down to the nerve the tooth may be repaired using filling material, though root canal treatment and a new crown may also be required. If the tooth is split into two parts it may be possible to save one of the tooth roots (if it is a molar tooth that has more than one root) and place a crown to protect the tooth. If this is the case, the damaged roots will be removed. If the tooth is split vertically and the root is inflamed, the tooth is usually extracted.
If a tooth has broken as a result of decay, which has spread to the roots and the alveolar bone, your dentist will probably suggest removing the tooth.
In the event of a broken tooth or broken teeth, please use our 24 hour emergency dental service to improve your condition.
Further reading for more information on Broken Teeth
