Why did a piece of my tooth break off?
Broken Tooth
A broken or fractured tooth can be caused by various things. This may include grinding the teeth trauma, routine use, and aging. The most common symptoms of a broken bone include pain, swelling, and sensitivity. If the break is minor, there may be no symptoms. Various treatments are used for the restoration of a broken tooth. The best treatment option will depend on the severity of the break, budget, and location of the tooth in the mouth.
In cases of a small, minor crack, there may not be any obvious issues. With a severe crack, the pain may be more pronounced, and the break can be visually obvious. It is possible for a large portion of the tooth to break off. If the crack is severe and reaches the pulp, it can cause significant pain and discomfort. While a break can happen to any patient, regardless of their age, breaks are more common in children and older patients. A broken tooth is serious, and patients should follow up with their dentist right away.
Tooth Anatomy
The tooth consists of the crown and root. The crown is the visible portion that is above the gums. The root is the portion of the tooth below the gums.
Layers
The teeth contain three different layers, which are outlined below:
- Enamel – the white outer surface which is hard and protects the tooth
- Dentin – tooth’s center layer
- Pulp – this is the innermost layer of the tooth, which contains blood vessels and sensitive nerves
Symptoms
Below are common symptoms associated with a broken tooth:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold things
- Pain that can be constant or come and go
- Swelling near the base of the tooth
Causes
Below are the primary causes for a broken tooth :
- Age: Patients over the age of 50 are at an increased risk for a broken tooth
- Grinding of the teeth
- Root canals or large fillings
- Using the teeth as a tool or chewing on hard objects
- Trauma, accidents, and injuries
Fractures are most common on the back teeth in the lower jaw or in the upper front teeth. Patients typically break one tooth, but it is possible to break multiple teeth at once. Teeth with cavities or decay are also at an increased risk of a break.
Treatment
The dental professional will complete an evaluation to determine the severity of the break and identify the best plan for treatment. Breaks can result in serious pain and sensitivity, but don’t always cause symptoms when they are minor. Patients who suspect they have a broken tooth should contact the dentist immediately. Prompt treatment helps ensure the best possible outcome. Avoiding treatment can result in serious issues, including tooth loss.
Timeline
The timeline for treatment will vary from a few weeks to a few months or more. Bonding and fillings are completed in a single visit. When a dental crown or veneers are placed, patients will visit the dentist multiple times over a few weeks. In the event the tooth cannot be preserved and must be removed, a dental implant is often used to replace the missing tooth. The implant procedure takes a few months from start to finish.
If you suspect that you have a broken tooth, contact our office today. We can schedule an appointment and will work diligently to preserve the tooth. Our team looks forward to helping you restore your beautiful smile and preserve your oral health.
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