A broken tooth can be a painful and worrying experience, but knowing the signs and what to do can help you address the issue promptly. In this blog, we will explore common signs of a broken tooth and provide actionable steps for a broken tooth near you to take if you suspect you have one.
First, What is a Broken Tooth?
Before we delve into the signs, let’s understand what happens when a tooth breaks. When a tooth breaks, it means that the hard outer layer (called enamel) gets damaged, revealing the softer parts inside, like dentin or nerves. This damage can be small, like a chip, or big, like a crack that goes deep into the gum.
Signs You Have a Broken Tooth
1. Sharp Pain
A clear sign that your tooth might be broken is if you feel a sharp or sudden pain when you bite or chew. The pain can be different for everyone and depends on how severe the break is. If you feel this kind of pain when you eat or drink, it’s really important to go see your dentist as soon as you can.
2. Sensitivity to Temperature
Do you feel discomfort when you drink hot coffee or cold water? If so, it could be a sign that your tooth is broken. When a tooth is cracked or fractured, it might expose the nerves inside, making it sensitive to temperature changes and causing discomfort.
3. Swelling and Redness
If a tooth is broken, you might notice swelling and redness around the broken area. This occurs due to an infection or irritation caused by the break. If you see any swelling or redness in your gums or around a tooth, it’s important to seek dental help promptly.
4. Visible Damage
Sometimes, you can tell if a tooth is broken just by looking at it. Check for any chips, cracks, or breaks in your teeth, especially if they hurt or feel sensitive. Even if it’s just a little bit damaged, it could mean a problem that needs your dentist’s help and a broken tooth filling.
5. Discomfort While Eating
Feeling pain or discomfort when you eat might mean your tooth is broken. You might feel pain when you bite down on certain foods or a sharp feeling when you chew. If you notice any changes in your eating and think your tooth might be broken, it’s best to talk to your dentist about it.
What to Do If You Suspect a Broken Tooth
- Contact your dentist: Make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Waiting can make things worse.
- Rinse your mouth: In the meantime, rinse it with warm salt water to clean it and ease discomfort. Avoid putting aspirin or painkillers directly on your gums.
- Avoid certain foods: Avoid hard or crunchy foods that could make the problem worse. Stick to softer foods that are easier to chew until you see your dentist.
- Apply a cold compress: If your cheek is swollen or sore, put a cold pack on the outside and wrap it in a cloth to protect your skin.
- Listen to your dentist: After checking your broken tooth, your dentist will suggest what to do next, like using dental bonding, getting a crown, or, in severe cases, removing the tooth. Follow their advice closely to make sure you heal well.
Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth
Here are some common cracked tooth treatment you can consider:
- Dental bonding: This is for small chips or cracks. The dentist puts tooth-colored resin on the tooth and hardens it with light.
- Dental crown: If the break is severe, a custom-made cap is placed on the tooth to strengthen it and make it look normal again.
- Root canal therapy: If the break goes into the inside of the tooth where the nerves are, the infected part is taken out to fix the tooth.
- Extraction: If the damage is too bad to fix, the tooth might need removal. Your dentist will talk to you about what to do next, like getting an implant or bridge to replace the missing tooth.
Preventing Future Tooth Damage
- Keep your teeth clean: Brush your teeth two times every day, floss once a day, and go to the dentist often to check and clean your teeth. This helps stop cavities and damage.
- Use a mouthguard: If you play sports or do activities where you might hurt your teeth, wear a mouthguard to keep them safe.
- Avoid bad habits: Don’t chew on hard things like ice or pens because it can break your teeth.
- See your dentist regularly: Going to the dentist often helps them catch any problems with your teeth early before they get worse.
To sum up, noticing the signs of a broken tooth early and getting help quickly can prevent more pain and problems later on. If you think your tooth is broken, call your dentist immediately for help and treatment.
Fix your Broken Tooth with Expert Care!
At Keep28 Dental Centre, we know how important having a healthy and beautiful smile is. Our team of skilled dentists in Newmarket is committed to giving you individualized attention and effective treatments for your dental issues. Whether it’s a broken tooth or just regular check-ups, we’re here to help.
Schedule your appointment now and take the first step towards restoring your oral health!