We’ve all had that sudden moment of panic: biting down on something hard and feeling an unexpected crunch. Was that the food, or was it… your tooth? A fractured or chipped tooth is more common than you might think and can happen to anyone.
Whether it’s from biting into a popcorn kernel or from an accidental bump, our teeth, although strong, aren’t invincible. Recognising the symptoms early can make a world of difference in treatment and outcome.
So, in this article, we’ll discuss some common signs of a fractured tooth and guide you through the most effective treatment options. So, the next time you feel that unexpected crunch, you’ll know exactly what to do.
Common Signs of a Fractured Tooth
A tooth fracture might sound daunting, but spotting it early can save you from a lot of discomfort and dental hassle down the road. Not all fractures are immediately noticeable, and some might even fly under your pain radar for a while.
So, what should you keep an eye (or a tooth!) out for? Here are the most common signs:
Sudden Sharp Pain
This isn’t your typical toothache. Imagine biting into an ice cream cone and experiencing an unexpected, sharp pain. The tooth’s enamel might have cracked, exposing the more sensitive inner layers. When these layers come into contact with hot or cold substances, they send out a painful signal. It’s the tooth’s way of alerting you that its protective shield has been compromised.
Pain That Comes and Goes
A continuous ache often points to other dental issues, but a fractured tooth has a more mysterious nature. One moment, you’re laughing with friends, the next, you’re wincing in pain, and then it’s gone again. This intermittent pain is because the crack might open and close as you use your jaw, exposing the sensitive inner parts intermittently.
Trouble Pinpointing Pain
A fractured tooth can be quite the master of disguise. You might feel pain on one side of your mouth but can’t determine which exact tooth it’s coming from. This diffused pain happens because the nerves inside our teeth are interconnected, and pain can sometimes radiate from one area to another.
Swollen Gums
When a tooth fractures, the gum around it can become inflamed and swollen. This swelling is your body’s response to potential infection or injury. It’s like when you get a cut on your skin, and the area around it becomes red and puffy. If one area of your gum looks puffier than the rest, it’s trying to tell you something.
Biting Pain
This one’s quite telling. If you bite down on something and feel a sharp, localised pain, it could be a crack opening up under the pressure. And when you release the bite, the crack closes again, causing another jolt of pain. This push-pull effect is a significant hint of a fractured tooth.
Visible Damage
Sometimes, evidence of a fracture is as clear as day. If you look in the mirror and see a visible line, chip, or even a tiny piece missing from a tooth, that’s a sure sign. Even if it’s not causing pain now, it’s crucial to address it before it potentially gets worse.
What Usually Causes Tooth Fracture?
Before we talk about some possible treatment options for a fractured tooth, we should perhaps let you know what usually causes this dental problem.
A tooth, as sturdy as it may seem, can become fractured for various reasons. We believe when you know the common causes of tooth fractures, it will be easier for you to prevent them. So, let’s go over a couple of them.
Accidents and Trauma: Whether it’s a fall, a sports-related injury, or even an accidental bump, physical trauma is a leading cause of tooth fractures. Protective gear like mouthguards can be instrumental in reducing the risk, especially during high-contact activities.
Biting Hard Substances: That satisfaction of cracking open a nut or chomping on hard candy can backfire. Biting into overly hard foods or non-food items (like pencils or ice) can exert more pressure than a tooth can withstand, leading to a crack or chip.
Large Fillings: Teeth that have been previously treated with large fillings can be weaker than intact ones. The filling can occupy a substantial part of the tooth’s structure, making the remaining natural tooth more susceptible to fractures.
Grinding and Clenching: Some people have a habit of grinding their teeth, known as bruxism. Over time, the repeated pressure and friction can weaken teeth, making them more prone to cracks or breaks.
Temperature Extremes: Frequently subjecting your teeth to alternating hot and cold temperatures can be harmful. Think of a glass that cracks when exposed to boiling water immediately after being in the freezer. Similarly, sipping hot coffee after enjoying an ice cream can cause rapid contraction and expansion in the tooth enamel, leading to potential fractures.
Age: Just as bones can become more brittle with age, teeth, too, can show signs of wear and tear. People over 50 are generally more at risk of fractured teeth simply due to the longevity of usage.
Weakened Structure from Previous Procedures: Teeth that have undergone root canal treatments or other extensive dental procedures might be slightly weaker, making them more susceptible to fractures.
What Are Some Treatment Options for Fractured Teeth?
Now that you know some of the common symptoms to look out for and the usual causes of teeth fractures, let’s consider some treatment options that could help.
Interestingly, modern dentistry offers a wide array of treatment options to tackle the issue. Depending on the type, location, and severity of the fracture, different solutions come into play. Let’s see some of the most common treatments.
#1: Dental Bonding
This is one of the simplest and most cost-effective methods for treating minor fractures. A tooth-coloured resin material is applied to the broken or chipped portion of the tooth, which is then shaped to look natural and cured with a special light to harden it.
Dr Andrew Healy, an esteemed dentist at Pall Mall Dental Clinic in Liverpool, gave his opinion about the use of dental bonding for fractured teeth. He said, “One of the primary methods we often recommend for minor tooth fractures or chips is dental bonding.
Dental bonding is not only a cost-effective solution but also a minimally invasive one. Using a tooth-coloured composite resin, we’re able to seamlessly blend the repaired section with the rest of the tooth, ensuring an aesthetic finish.
Although not the best for all cases, dental bonding proved to be one of the best approaches to treating fractured teeth.”
#2: Dental Veneers
For more visible fractures, especially in the front teeth, veneers can be a great option. These are thin shells, usually made of porcelain, that cover the front surface of the tooth, restoring its appearance and function.
Dr Mafalda Queiroz, a seasoned dentist with extensive experience in cosmetic dentistry at York Dental Suite, offers his expert opinion on dental veneers for fractured teeth:
“Dental veneers have truly revolutionised the way we address fractured teeth. These ultra-thin, custom-made shells are meticulously crafted to not only conceal the fracture but also to provide a flawless, natural appearance. They’re a fantastic solution for patients seeking both strength and aesthetics.”
#3: Dental Crowns
Think of this as a protective cap for your fractured tooth. If a significant part of the tooth is damaged or if there’s extensive decay, a crown can be placed over the tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
“Dental crowns are a cornerstone in restorative dentistry. They not only reinstate the tooth’s natural form and function but also provide added strength, especially for teeth compromised by extensive decay or fractures. In my experience, a well-fitted crown can offer years of reliable service, blending seamlessly with natural teeth,” explained Dr Jamshaid Mansoor, the principal dentist at Primadent Dental Clinic.
#4: Root Canal Therapy
If the fracture is deep enough that it reaches the tooth’s pulp (the innermost part containing blood vessels and nerves), a root canal might be necessary. This procedure involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the area, and then filling and sealing it.
Often, a tooth that has had a root canal will be crowned to protect it from further damage. However, not all dentists can do this. You will need to find a dentist who specialises in root canal therapy for the best result. If you stay in or around Liverpool, you can contact Northway Dental Practice for the procedure.
#5: Dental Implants
In the most severe cases, where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction might be necessary. But that doesn’t mean you have to live with a gap in your smile. Dental implants can replace the extracted tooth.
An implant involves placing a titanium post in the jawbone, which acts as a root, and then attaching a crown to it, giving the appearance and function of a natural tooth.
“Dental crowns not only reinstate the tooth’s natural form and function but also provide added strength, especially for teeth compromised by extensive decay or fractures. A well-fitted crown can offer years of reliable service, blending seamlessly with natural teeth,” Dr Andrew Holly – a seasoned dentist at Holly Dental Practice in Preston.
#6: Dental Onlays
These are the middle ground between dental bonding and crowns. If the fracture doesn’t warrant a full crown but is too extensive for bonding, an onlay might be the best choice. It covers the fractured area and is cemented in place, providing both strength and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
Recognising and addressing a fractured tooth promptly can make all the difference in preserving one’s oral health and smile. From minor treatments like dental bonding to more permanent solutions like implants, modern dentistry offers an array of effective options.
Regardless of the cause or type of fracture, consulting with a dental professional remains paramount. After all, our teeth play a vital role not just in aesthetics but in overall health and well-being, so giving them the care they deserve is an investment worth making.
