Dealing with a Broken Tooth
by Dr. Steve Stensland, DDS
Would you know what to do if your tooth were to break? Few people do, and unfortunately, as strong as teeth are, they are not invulnerable. Over time, teeth grinding (bruxism) and tooth decay can weaken teeth, putting them at risk of breaking, and there is no telling when a dental emergency, such as an unexpected blow, could occur, causing severe damage one or more teeth. Therefore, it is important to be ready should such an unpleasant situation come to pass. The information below will help prepare you.
A Broken Tooth: The Aftermath
Panic and disbelief are likely to be your first reactions upon breaking a tooth. However, there are a few important steps you can take to get the situation under control. First, rinse your mouth with warm water. Doing so can remove some bacteria from your mouth and away from your now vulnerable tooth. Second, seek dental assistance. Prompt care can prevent an infection in your tooth as well as further damage. Third, if you find yourself in a lot of pain, take a pain reliever.
Repairing a Broken Tooth
The method used to repair a broken tooth can vary depending upon the severity of the damage. For minor damage, such as a chip, dental bonding or a filling may be effective. A dental filling can provide extra strength to the tooth, reinforcing it against further damage. Dental bonding, on the other hand, is often used for teeth in the front of the mouth. The composite resin material used for dental bonding can be shaped and then hardened, restoring the form and appearance of the tooth.
If the damage is severe, a dental crown is usually the best choice. Sometimes called a cap, a dental crown fits over the top of a broken tooth, lending it strength and protecting it from further harm. Dental crowns can be made of metal, porcelain or a combination of the two, depending upon the location of the damaged tooth and the level of strength needed.
Visit Your Williamsburg Dentist
If your tooth breaks, don’t wait to seek dental care. Quick intervention can protect your tooth from further damage and infection. If you require dental assistance or would like to learn more about our many services, contact our Williamsburg dental office today at 757-645-4055.
5372 Discovery Park Boulevard #104
Dr. Steve Stensland, DDS (Owner/DDS)
Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI)
Member of the American Dental Association
Academy of General Dentistry
Virginia Dental Association
Peninsula Dental Society
American Academy of Cosmetic Dentists
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