Can a Broken Tooth be Repaired?

A broken tooth can be both painful and alarming, but the good news is that in many cases, it can be repaired.Whether your tooth has been chipped during a fall, cracked while eating something hard, or fractured due to decay, there are various treatment options available depending on the severity and location of the break.

Assessing the Damage

Not all tooth fractures are the same. Some might affect only the enamel, while others extend deeper into the dentine or even reach the pulp, which houses nerves and blood vessels. The degree of damage will determine the most suitable course of action.Minor chips and surface cracks are usually cosmetic issues and can often be repaired in a single visit. More severe breaks, however, may require more extensive treatment- or in some cases, tooth extraction if the damage is beyond repair.

Common Repair Options for Broken Teeth

Dental Bonding

For small chips or cracks, dental bonding is a quick and effective solution. A tooth-coloured resin is applied and shaped to restore the tooth’s appearance and function. It’s non-invasive and typically doesn’t require anaesthesia.

Dental Crown

If a significant portion of the tooth is broken or weakened, a crown may be placed over it to protect and strengthen what remains. This is common for molars or teeth that experience heavy biting forces.

Root Canal Treatment

When a break exposes the pulp, it can lead to infection or severe sensitivity. In this case, a root canal treatment may be needed to remove the damaged tissue before restoring the tooth with a crown.

Veneers

Front teeth with visible chips or cracks may benefit from veneers, which are thin porcelain layers bonded to the front of the tooth to offer a natural-looking repair.

Tooth Extraction

If the tooth is fractured below the gum line or is extensively decayed, extraction might be the only option. This is usually followed by a dental implant,bridge, or denture to fill the gap.

Don’t Ignore a Broken Tooth

Even if a broken tooth isn’t causing pain, it’s important to have it assessed by a dentist. Left untreated, cracks can worsen, leading to infections or the need for more complex treatments later on.Prompt care is key to saving the tooth and avoiding further complications. Whether it’s a small chip or a more serious break, most damaged teeth can be repaired with the right treatment and timely attention.