110 Broken Teeth – Half my tooth broke off (3 of 5)

110 Broken Teeth – Half my tooth broke off (3 of 5)
It can be quite shocking when patients experience a cracked tooth. Cracked teeth can occur as the result of trauma, an injury, or even during routine activities. Fortunately, there are solutions for repairing a cracked tooth. It is critical to follow up with the dentist immediately for an evaluation and treatment. Prompt action helps ensure the best possible outcome. Below is a summary of frequently asked questions related to cracked teeth.

Causes
The teeth can crack due to an accident or injury. Patients who play contact sports for example, may get hit in the mouth. Patients may also experience a cracked tooth from the general wear and tear of everyday use. Some patients have habits such as chewing on candy, ice, or other hard objects which can damage the teeth. Grinding of the teeth and clenching the jaw also place a lot of stress on the teeth. These things can slowly cause damage to the tooth’s enamel and allow for the tooth to crack or break off.

Symptoms
In most cases, a patient will feel pain or discomfort when a tooth cracks. The pulp which is located inside the tooth contains blood vessels and nerves. Patients who experience sudden pain while eating food which are hot or cold may also have a cracked tooth. Another common symptom of a cracked teeth is pain which comes and goes while chewing.

What to Do If a Tooth Cracks In Half
It is possible for a tooth to crack in half. If this occurs, call the dentist immediately for the next appointment. A tooth which cracks in half is considered an emergency and the dentist will meet with you as soon as possible. Treatment for a broken tooth should not be avoided as it can result in additional damage, infection, or the loss of the tooth. Infection begins in the pulp, spreading to the gum, and finally the bone below the tooth. Patients who are unable to visit their dentist right away should continue their oral hygiene regimen and using extra caution when cleaning around the damaged tooth.

Treatment
The outcome of the broken tooth can depend on how quickly it is treated. During the visit, the dentist will evaluate the damage to determine the best plan for treatment. The goal is always to preserve the tooth when possible. Below are some of the most common solutions for a broken tooth:
* When a small piece of enamel or filling chips off, a new filling or bonding can be used to restore the damaged tooth.
* If a small piece of the tooth breaks off, a crown or filling may be used.
* In cases of a severe fracture, endodontic surgery may be needed to remove the fractured portion. This protects the tooth and pulp.
* When the crack extends into the pulp, a root canal or extraction may be necessary.

It can be frightening to crack a tooth. Fortunately, but the dentist will work diligently to preserve the tooth through one of the above treatment options. In the event the tooth must be extracted, dental implants are an excellent tooth-replacement option. If a portion of your tooth breaks off, reach out to your dentist immediately. Prompt action is critical in a positive outcome.