What Gets Done When You Break a Tooth
Posted on 7/15/2026 by Beaverton Oral Surgeons |
 Breaking a tooth can be a really unsettling experience. It can happen while you’re eating, playing sports, or even just grinding your teeth at night. But understanding what happens next, and the steps involved in fixing it, can ease your worries and get you smiling confidently again.
What Happens Immediately After Breaking a Tooth?
The first thing you'll probably notice is pain. The level of pain can vary depending on how much of the tooth is broken and whether the inner pulp (containing nerves and blood vessels) is exposed. You might also feel a sharp edge with your tongue, which can be irritating. It's important to gently rinse your mouth with warm water. This helps to clean the area and remove any debris. If there's bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage discomfort until you can see a dental professional.
Why See an Oral Surgeon?
While a general dentist can handle many types of broken teeth, an oral surgeon often becomes involved in more complex cases. These could include breaks that extend below the gum line, involve significant damage to the surrounding bone, or require extraction (removal) of the tooth. Oral surgeons have specialized training in these procedures and can provide comprehensive treatment. They are also experts in managing pain and anxiety, making the whole experience more comfortable.
The Examination and Diagnosis
The first step in fixing a broken tooth is a thorough examination. This usually involves taking X-rays to assess the extent of the damage. The X-rays help the dental professional see if the root is fractured, if there's any infection, or if the surrounding bone is affected. They'll also examine the soft tissues (gums) around the broken tooth to check for any injuries.
Treatment Options
The treatment for a broken tooth depends on several factors, including the location and severity of the break, your overall oral health, and your personal preferences. Here are some common approaches:
| • |
Small Chips or Fractures: If the break is minor, it might be repaired with a filling or bonding. This involves using a tooth-colored resin material to restore the shape and function of the tooth. |
| • |
Larger Breaks: More significant breaks might require a crown. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire tooth, providing strength and protection. |
| • |
Breaks Extending Below the Gum Line: These are often more complicated. If the break is too deep, extraction might be the only option. |
| • |
Root Canal Therapy: If the break exposes the pulp of the tooth, root canal therapy might be necessary to remove the infected or damaged tissue. After root canal therapy, the tooth will typically need a crown for protection. |
| • |
Extraction and Replacement: If the tooth can't be saved, it will need to be extracted. After extraction, there are several options for replacing the missing tooth, such as a dental implant, a bridge, or a removable partial denture. |
Reforestation Dentistry
Reforestation dentistry is the concept that after an extraction, we need to think about replacing the tooth. After the "tree" (tooth) is gone, we must plan to "reforest" (replace) the tooth. Leaving a space after a tooth is extracted can cause shifting of other teeth, collapse of the bite, and pain in the jaw joint.
Long-Term Oral Care
Regardless of the treatment chosen, maintaining good oral care is essential for the long-term health of your teeth. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups. If you've had a broken tooth repaired, it's important to pay extra attention to the area and follow your dental professional's instructions carefully.
|
|
