A tooth breaking in half can happen suddenly, for example, when eating something hard, being hit, or if the tooth has been damaged for a long time. This situation can be quite shocking, especially if the broken tooth is quite large.
It's important to note that a broken tooth doesn't always cause immediate pain. Some people only notice a sharp edge or a change in shape when their tooth is broken. Even if it doesn't hurt, the tooth should still be examined to determine the extent of the damage.
Why Can Teeth Break in Half?
Several factors can cause a tooth to break. One example is a tooth that has been weakened by a cavity or significant damage. The more missing a tooth is, the more likely it is to break when subjected to pressure.
Impact can also be a cause. Teeth can break after a fall, being hit by a hard object, an accident, or a collision during sports. Biting on hard objects can also put unnecessary pressure on the teeth.
A Tooth Is Half Broken But Doesn't Hurt, Is It Safe?
A tooth that's broken in half but doesn't hurt doesn't necessarily mean it's safe. The pain depends heavily on the part of the tooth that's damaged. If the fracture hasn't reached the inside of the tooth, the pain may not be as noticeable.
Still, a broken tooth can be more susceptible to further damage, especially if the fracture makes the inside of the tooth more susceptible to food and bacteria. So, the absence of pain is no reason to simply leave it alone.
What Happens If You Leave a Broken Tooth?
A broken tooth can suffer further damage if left untreated. The remaining part may become more brittle and could break again when chewing.
If the damage extends to the inner surface of the tooth, symptoms such as toothache or sensitivity to food and drink can arise. Therefore, the sooner the tooth is examined, the easier it will be for the doctor to determine treatment options.
Can a Half Broken Tooth Be Repaired?
Yes, but it depends on the condition of the tooth. The dentist will need to see how large the fracture is and whether the inside of the tooth is affected.
For certain fractures, teeth can be repaired using fillings or restorations. In other cases, a dentist may consider using a crown to cover and protect a tooth that has lost significant parts.
What if the tooth breaks all the way through?
If the fracture is deep enough to involve the nerve or tissue within the tooth, treatment may be different. The dentist may need to perform a root canal before the tooth can be repaired.
This can't be determined simply by looking at the tooth externally. A dentist will usually examine the tooth and may perform additional tests if necessary. So, don't immediately conclude that a tooth needs to be extracted just because it's broken a lot.
Should a Broken Tooth Be Extracted?
Not all broken teeth need to be extracted. As long as the tooth can still be saved, the doctor will usually consider appropriate treatment options.
Tooth extraction may be an option if the tooth is so severely damaged that it cannot be saved. This decision should be made after a thorough examination, not based solely on the extent of the visible fracture.
What to Do When a New Tooth Breaks?
If you've just broken a tooth, don't immediately try to pull out the part of the tooth that's still attached. Also, avoid biting hard foods with that side.
If a piece of tooth falls out, save it and take it with you to the dentist. The NHS recommends storing broken pieces in milk or saliva until they're examined. In some cases, the dentist may still be able to use the piece.
Can You Still Chew with a Broken Tooth?
It's best to avoid using a broken tooth to bite down on hard foods. The added pressure can cause further damage to the remaining tooth.
For now, choose softer foods and use the side of your mouth that isn't affected. This isn't a cure for the tooth, but it can help relieve pressure while you wait for the exam.
How to Treat a Broken Tooth at Home
There's no home remedy that can truly reattach a broken tooth. Proper treatment still requires a dental examination.
While waiting for your appointment, keep the area clean and avoid foods that are too hard, hot, or cold if they cause discomfort. Do not attempt to attach the tooth with glue or other non-medical materials.
When Should You See a Dentist Immediately?
It's best to get checked out sooner if a broken tooth is accompanied by severe pain, bleeding, swelling, or extreme sensitivity. Teeth that are broken due to impact should also be checked for other damage.
If you experience swelling in your face or jaw, fever, difficulty opening your mouth, or difficulty swallowing or breathing, don't delay. These conditions may require immediate treatment as they could be related to a more serious infection or injury.
Why Can Filled Teeth Break Again?
Teeth that have already lost a significant amount of structure can become more susceptible to pressure, especially if the fillings are old or the teeth are still frequently used to bite down on hard foods.
If a tooth that has been filled breaks again, it's best not to fill it yourself or wait until it becomes painful. The dentist will need to assess the overall condition of the tooth to determine whether it can be repaired or if further treatment is needed.
How to Prevent Broken Teeth
Maintaining healthy teeth can help reduce the risk of tooth decay. Brush your teeth regularly, floss, and have regular dental checkups.
Additionally, avoid biting hard objects like ice cubes, pens, or other objects you shouldn't bite. If you frequently grind your teeth, you should also consult a dentist.
Conclusion
A broken tooth can be caused by many things, from a cavity or weakened tooth to an impact or habit of biting hard objects. The condition isn't always accompanied by pain.
Even if it's not painful, a broken tooth should still be examined. Broken teeth can be repaired in many situations, but the type of treatment depends on the extent and depth of the damage. The sooner a diagnosis is made, the clearer the treatment options will be.