Broken or fractured teeth occur for a number of reasons. Trauma to the mouth during cycling accidents or contact sports can break teeth. Cracks can occur while eating hard food, or opening or breaking items with your teeth. Low calcium levels and other health conditions which weaken teeth and bone material can result in damage, as can poor oral health and general wear and tear.
Breaks following severe direct trauma are usually easy to detect and in addition to hearing the tooth break and feeling pain, you may feel a gap with your tongue where part of the tooth is missing. If a nerve is exposed, then the tooth will feel sore and sensitive. However, you are unlikely to be aware of fractures or cracks that have occurred as a result of wear and tear. Six-monthly check-ups with a dentist will help cracks and fractures to be identified and allow treatment to occur before further damage is caused.
Treatments for breaks vary, depending on the degree of damage and nerve exposure. Polishing and smoothing is usually adequate if only the outer surface of the tooth is fractured. Porcelain fillings are used for small breaks and in more severe cases veneers can be attached to restore natural shade and shape. If the tooth’s edges are damaged, a crown can provide structure to the remaining tooth. Root canal treatment is usually required in the event of nerve damage or bleeding. Dentures, bridges and implants can be used if extraction of the broken tooth is required.
It is important that broken teeth are treated, even if they are out-of-site, to prevent decay and gum disease and to maintain oral form, overall tooth structure and a healthy and full smile.
Raynesway Dental in Derby provides excellent treatment and advice for broken teeth. To book and appointment and get advice on how to restore your broken smile, contact us today. Check out our testimonials to see just how highly past patients rate our service or call us on 01332 757 755 to book an appointment.
