Broken and fractured teeth are common dental problems. These issues can arise suddenly after an accident or trauma. In other cases, fractures develop slowly due to daily wear and tear. Some fractures are easy to detect when you look in the mirror. However, others may require an extensive dental assessment to detect. Broken or damaged teeth can cause pain, sensitivity, and discomfort.
These symptoms may interfere with chewing and talking. Teeth fracturing or breaking affects the natural structure of the enamel. Additionally, it allows bacteria to enter the tooth, and they can cause infection. A tooth fracture can lead to severe oral health complications if left untreated. These complications include tooth loss, tooth decay, abscesses, and bone damage.
If you experience tooth pain, sensitivity, or any sign of loss, you should seek professional dental care immediately. Your dentist will examine your condition and recommend the appropriate treatment. At The Encino Dentist, we offer safe, effective, and reliable dental care to our patients in Encino, CA.
What Is a Fractured or Broken Tooth?
A fractured or broken tooth is a tooth that has a crack, chip, or complete break. The damage can impact only the outer enamel. Occasionally, it can extend deeper into the tooth. In some cases, the dentin or pulp is involved. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels. Therefore, damage in this area can cause severe pain and discomfort.
A tooth fracture is a crack that runs through the tooth. The crack may be small and difficult to see. Furthermore, it may only cause discomfort when biting or chewing. Over time, the crack can grow deeper and spread toward the root. Without treatment, the tooth may split or become infected.
A broken tooth often means a visible piece has chipped or snapped off. Tooth breakage can happen suddenly after experiencing trauma. When you suffer a fractured tooth, you may experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. The sensitivity occurs because the broken tooth can expose the nerves.
Fractures and tooth breakage weaken the tooth’s natural structure. You should not ignore any sign of a fractured tooth. When you consult a dentist, they can evaluate your enamel and recommend remedies for the fractures before they cause more complications.
Common Causes of Fractured Teeth
Fractured teeth are a typical dental emergency. These issues could develop suddenly or over time. Some ways through which you can break or fracture your tooth include:
Biting Hard Objects
Your tooth enamel is strong enough to withstand the forces of chewing. However, teeth are not designed to crush tough materials. Biting into complex objects, such as ice, hard candy, nuts, and popcorn kernels, can cause damage to your teeth. These foods place intense pressure on enamel.
Tooth Decay and Weak Enamel
Tooth decay weakens the natural structure of teeth. When cavities damage the enamel, the tooth becomes fragile. A weakened tooth can fracture during normal chewing. Decay can begin from one spot and spread beneath the surface. The enamel makes the damage less visible. Poor oral hygiene and frequent sugar intake increase the risk of cavities, which may result in fractures.
Teeth Grinding and Clenching
Grinding or clenching teeth places constant stress on them. Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, occurs during sleep and may go unnoticed. Over time, grinding wears down enamel and creates cracks. These cracks may deepen and lead to fractures. People who grind their teeth often experience jaw pain or headaches.
Dental Trauma and Accidents
Accidents are a common cause of tooth fractures. These accidents could include falls, car accidents, and sports injuries. A direct blow to the mouth can instantly crack or break a tooth. If you engage in contact sports without a mouth guard, your risk of suffering a tooth fracture increases. Even minor accidents can cause hidden fractures.
If you suffer an accident that causes trauma to your mouth and jaw, you will need an immediate dental evaluation. Your dentist can perform X-rays and other diagnostic tests to determine whether you have a fracture.
Large Fillings or Dental Restorations
Teeth with large fillings are more likely to fracture than natural teeth. When a filling replaces much of the tooth, there is little natural structure remaining. This weakens the tooth and reduces its sensitivity to pressure. The surrounding enamel may crack over time. Old fillings also add strain to the enamel by extending it beyond its natural limits.
Sudden Temperature Changes
Extreme temperature changes can stress your teeth, causing them to crack or weaken. The sudden temperature change could result from alternating between hot and cold drinks. The stress from this temperature fluctuation can cause a tiny crack. Repeated exposure to such changes could worsen the crack.
Aging and Natural Wear
As people age, their enamel naturally wears down. Years of chewing and teeth grinding can weaken tooth structure. Even without trauma, older people have a high risk of developing fractures under normal biting forces. You will need regular dental checkups to help detect early signs of damage.
Symptoms of Broken or Fractured Teeth
The symptoms of a broken or fractured tooth can appear immediately after trauma or gradually. Other symptoms become noticeable only when chewing or drinking. If you observe any of the following symptoms, you should seek emergency dental care:
Pain When Biting or Chewing
You may experience pain or severe discomfort when chewing if you have a fractured or broken tooth. The pain may feel sharp and only occurs when pressure is applied to the tooth. When you stop chewing or biting, the pressure is relieved from the tooth, and the pain may subside. This phenomenon happens because the crack shifts slightly during chewing. The movement irritates the inner layers of the tooth. Over time, the pain may become more frequent or intense.
Sensitivity to Hot, Cold, or Sweet Foods
Cold drinks or hot foods may cause discomfort to a broken or fractured tooth. An enamel fracture can expose the inner layer of the tooth, which contains the blood vessels. Sensitivity may worsen over time. Persistent sensitivity signals deeper tooth damage.
Visible Cracks, Chips, or Missing Pieces
The most obvious symptom of a broken or fractured tooth is a chip or crack in the enamel. You may have a missing tooth or a tooth that feels rough and uneven. But not all fractures are visible. Some cracks are buried below the gum line.
Sharp Edges That Irritate the Mouth
A broken tooth can have sharp or rough edges. These edges may rub against the tongue or cheek, causing cuts or irritation. In this case, you can experience discomfort when eating or speaking. Over time, the irritation can lead to inflammation or infection of the soft tissues. Irritation of the tongue and soft tissues is one of the first symptoms you may experience after the tooth breaks.
Swelling or Tenderness Around the Tooth
Swelling near the affected tooth can signal a serious problem. The gums may feel sore or tender when you have an enamel fracture. Such symptoms can happen when bacteria enter through a crack and cause an infection. The swelling may begin as mild discomfort and can worsen when left untreated.
Types of Broken or Fractured Teeth
Teeth do not always fracture or break uniformly. Some fractures occur suddenly, especially after trauma, while others develop gradually. Dentists classify tooth fractures based on their depth, direction, and severity. Common types of fractures include:
Craze Lines
Craze lines are tiny cracks that affect only the outer part of the enamel. This type of fracture is common in adults, and it heals with age. These lines are usually harmless, and they do not cause pain or sensitivity. Craze lines do not impact the inner layers of the tooth. For this reason, most people are unaware that they have them.
However, a dentist can detect them during a routine check. Sometimes, craze lines become more visible when teeth are dry. In most cases, you will not need treatment. Instead, dentists may suggest polishing or cosmetic bonding. You can prevent further wear and damage by ensuring excellent oral hygiene.
Chipped Tooth
A chipped tooth occurs when a small piece of enamel breaks off from the tooth. This often happens after biting something hard or experiencing minor trauma. Chipped teeth may not cause pain because they can only affect the outer enamel. However, larger chips can expose dentin and cause sensitivity to temperature and pressure. The tooth may feel rough or sharp. Treatment for a chipped tooth depends on the size and location of the chip.
Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth develops a fracture that starts on the chewing surface and moves downward. The crack runs vertically, and it may extend toward the root. However, it does not entirely split the tooth. When you have a cracked tooth, you may experience pain when you chew or bite.
Cracked teeth can be challenging to diagnose, as the pain may come and go. Over time, the crack can deepen, allowing bacteria to enter. Bacteria cause an infection, which can reach the pulp and damage it. If you have a cracked tooth, you will need early treatment to avoid further damage.
Split Tooth
A split tooth is usually the result of an untreated cracked tooth. The crack can progress until the tooth separates into two or more segments. When a tooth splits, the damage is more severe. In many cases, the dentist cannot save a split tooth. Therefore, they can recommend partial extraction. The remaining section will need a crown to protect it.
Vertical Root Fracture
A vertical root fracture begins in the root and extends upward. It can occur in teeth that have had root canal treatment. These fractures may not cause immediate pain. Common signs of a vertical fracture include gum swelling or recurring infection near the root. Vertical root fractures are challenging to detect with X-rays.
The damage affects the root, which makes repair unlikely. Therefore, your dentist can recommend an extraction. After losing a tooth in an extraction, you may need a root or bridge to replace it.
Fractured Cusp
A fractured cusp occurs when a pointed chewing surface breaks off. This type often impacts molars and premolars. Teeth with large fillings are more prone to this fracture. The cusp may break without warning. If you have a fractured cusp, you may experience mild or no pain. However, the tooth may feel uneven when chewing.
Root Fracture
A root fracture occurs below the gum line. It can result from trauma or impact to the jaw. The crown of the tooth may initially appear normal. However, symptoms like pain and gum swelling may begin to appear gradually. Treatment for a root fracture will depend on its location. Some root fractures can heal with stabilization, while others require extraction.
Diagnosis of Fractured and Broken Teeth
Diagnosing a fractured tooth begins with a thorough dental examination. The dentist will examine the teeth for visible cracks, chips, or missing tooth structure. They will then examine the tooth under good lighting and magnification. While some fractures are readily visible, others can be easily overlooked.
The dentist will ask about your symptoms. Pain patterns can provide important clues. If you experience pain when biting down, you may have a crack. Sensitivity to temperature or sweets may indicate damage to the enamel or dentin. If you experience intermittent pain, you may have a fractured tooth.
After explaining your symptoms, the dentist will perform a bite test. They will ask you to bite on a special tool or a cotton roll. The pain you experience during biting can help locate the crack or fracture. This test is helpful, especially when you have multiple damaged teeth. Occasionally, the dentist will perform a dental X-ray to check for a tooth fracture.
X-rays help detect fractures that extend into the root or affect the pulp. However, not all cracks show up on X-rays. Vertical cracks and early fractures may remain hidden. X-rays also allow the dentist to rule out infection, bone loss, or abscess formation. A dentist can also use transillumination for diagnosing fractures.This involves shining a bright light through the tooth. Cracks are often distracting and make the light appear more clearly.
Treatment Options for Broken and Fractured Teeth
Standard treatment approaches that your dentist can recommend for a broken or fractured tooth include:
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a suitable treatment for small chips and minor fractures. During dental bonding, the dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to the damaged area of the tooth. They then shape the material and harden it using a special light. Bonding restores the tooth’s appearance and smooths rough edges. The bonding procedure is fast and straightforward.
Therefore, you will only need a single dental visit to complete it. Furthermore, your dentist will not apply anesthesia because it does not interfere with the tooth’s natural structure. Bonding is not as strong as crowns or veneers. This is because the resin can wear down or stain over time. Therefore, it is not suitable for deep fractures or teeth under heavy biting pressure.
Dental Fillings
Your dentist can recommend a dental filling when a fracture affects the tooth structure. Dental fillings are commonly used when decay is present alongside a crack. If you want to maintain an even and appealing smile, you may need a composite filling. The dentist will first remove the damaged or decayed tissue. They then place the filling material and shape it.
When the filling hardens, it restores the tooth’s function. You may be a suitable candidate for a filling if you have:
- Small to moderate fractures
- Cracks that do not weaken the entire tooth
- Areas affected by decay and minor breakage
Fillings provide moderate strength. However, they may not be enough for large cracks.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a standard treatment for cracked or fractured teeth. A crown acts as a protective cap over the entire visible portion of the tooth. Crowns reconstruct the shape, size, and strength of a tooth. They also work for normal chewing. Dentists recommend crowns for:
- Cracked teeth that cause pain when chewing
- Teeth weakened by large fractures
- Teeth with old or large fillings
- Teeth treated with a root canal
Crowns are made from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials. The choice of material will depend on tooth location and biting force.
Root Canal Treatment
When a tooth fracture reaches the pulp, your dentist can recommend a root canal. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels. Root canal treatment involves the removal of infected or damaged pulp by the dentist. The dentist will clean and seal the area after removing the pulp. If you have one of the following symptoms, you may need a root canal:
- Persistent tooth pain
- Sensitivity to heat or cold
- Swelling or tenderness near the tooth
- Darkening of the tooth
After a root canal, the dentist will place a crown to protect the tooth from breaking further.
Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is the last resort for a severely damaged or broken tooth. Your dentist will recommend this option when they are unable to save your tooth. You may need an extraction under the following circumstances:
- The tooth is split into separate pieces.
- The root is fractured vertically.
- You have an uncontrolled infection.
- Structural damage is too extensive.
Long-Term Complications of Untreated Tooth Fractures
Pain is not always constant when you have a cracked or broken tooth. Therefore, most people assume that the condition is not serious. However, if a cracked or broken tooth is left untreated, it can lead to severe long-term problems. These include:
Deep Tooth Infection and Abscess Formation
Tooth cracks allow bacteria to enter the inner layer of the tooth. The pulp could become infected over time. This can lead to a dental abscess. An abscess is a pus-filled pouch that forms near the root. It causes extreme pain and swelling. If left untreated, the infection can reach the jaw, sinuses, or bloodstream.
Infection in the bloodstream can cause life-threatening conditions like heart disease. For this reason, a fractured tooth will need emergency care.
Permanent Nerve Damage
When a fracture reaches the pulp, the tooth’s nerve may become inflamed. Prolonged inflammation damages the nerve tissue and causes it to die. When the nerve is dead, the pain may temporarily stop. However, the infection continues silently. In this case, you may need a root canal or tooth extraction. Delaying treatment can cause permanent damage to the tooth.
Tooth Splitting and Structural Failure
Small cracks can spread due to repeated pressure on the damaged tooth. Eventually, the tooth may split into two or more separate pieces. At this stage, the dentist cannot repair the tooth, and you may need an extraction.
Tooth Loss and Bite Problems
Untreated fractures often lead to tooth loss. Losing a tooth affects how the teeth come together. Also, it may cause adjacent teeth to shift. If you fail to replace missing teeth, the health of your jaw may deteriorate, leading to misalignment. Teeth misalignment can impact your smile and ability to perform good oral hygiene routines. Additionally, you can experience jaw pain and headaches.
Bone Loss and Gum Complications
Chronic infection from a fractured tooth can damage the surrounding bone. The jawbone begins to deteriorate near the root. Also, the gum tissue may become inflamed or recede. Bone loss can complicate procedures like dental implants, which aim to replace missing teeth. You can preserve the health of your jawbone by seeking prompt treatment for the fractured tooth.
Find Reliable Emergency Dentistry Services Near Me
Fractured and broken teeth are a common issue among individuals of all ages. A fracture can affect the appearance and function of your tooth. You can suffer a broken tooth from an accident or from unhealthy habits like biting hard foods and constant grinding or clenching. Cracks and fractures on the teeth vary in nature and location.
If you experience intense toothache, sensitivity, or a visible crack, you may have a tooth fracture or crack. In this case, you should consult your dentist immediately. The dentist will determine the location and extent of the fracture through the bite test, observation, and X-rays. If you have a fracture, your dentist can help you choose the best treatment plan.
Broken or fractured teeth commonly require bonding, root canal therapy, crowns, and extraction. At The Encino Dentist, we offer top-notch dental care to our clients. Contact us today from Encino, CA, at 818-650-0429 to schedule your appointment.