Why Did My Tooth Break?
A broken tooth (otherwise known as cracked tooth syndrome) can occur due to dental trauma, large cavities, large pre-existing fillings, or lost or broken restorations (crowns). If a broken tooth occurs, it’s important to see Dr. Lepore or Dr. Dougherty immediately to evaluate the severity of the broken tooth and to prevent further damage or tooth pain.
A broken tooth can be as minor as a chip in the enamel layer or as severe as fracturing the tooth to the gum line or into the tooth’s core, where the nerve is located. It is not uncommon for a broken tooth to not cause any pain. However, left untreated, more expensive dentistry could be required as things continue to fail and deteriorate.
Broken Tooth Symptoms
- Temperature sensitivity
- Biting sensitivity
- Have no symptoms at all
- Tooth may feel sharp to your tongue if a filling fractures off
Trauma from chewing or large fillings can weaken or leak over time and cause the tooth to fracture. A cracked tooth may not experience temperature sensitivity or experience any pressure sensitivity, but not treating a broken tooth can have serious consequences such as an infection or loss of the tooth.
Broken Tooth Treatment
If the chip is minor, Dr. Lepore or Dr. Dougherty can repair the chipped tooth with a filling or dental bonding.
However, if the crack or break extends to more than half the tooth, the tooth will need a dental crown to protect and maintain the tooth.
If the crack or break extends into the core of your tooth, where your nerve and blood vessels are located, it will require a root canal and a core buildup and crown to properly restore the tooth.
What Happens If I Don’t Repair My Broken Tooth?
Left untreated, a broken tooth can become infected and develop worsening tooth decay, leading to tooth pain and, potentially, eventual loss of the tooth.
Detect Potential Dental Issues Now
To prevent potential issues down the line, it’s crucial to maintain your oral health by coming in regularly for dental checkups. Our team at Lepore Comprehensive Dentistry will take pictures of your teeth during your visits to show you areas where cracks are developing. Call us to schedule your next check-up with Dr. Lepore or Dr. Dougherty.
Lepore Comprehensive Dentistry’s Modern Yet Compassionate Dental Care
Joe finds himself to be a part of the family at Lepore Comprehensive Dentistry, and he greatly appreciates that the team is up to date on current dental procedures and that Dr. Lepore takes the time to explain treatment and has created a roadmap for his future dental work. Joe finds Dr. Lepore to be a family man who shows empathy and compassion to his patients – a priceless quality in a doctor.
