Bel-Nor, MO

Broken Tooth Repair in Bel-Nor, MO: Restoring Your Smile

Broken tooth repair in Bel-Nor, MO. A broken tooth can be an agonizing and upsetting ordeal. Thankfully, a professional dentist can prepare a broken tooth, even if the damage is extensive. Plaza Dental Center is devoted to helping Bel-Nor, MO residents young and old get the quality dental care they need, with a team that is makes sure to be friendly and professional. If you require broken tooth repair in Bel-Nor, MO, speak to a team member today at 314-361-1818 or contact us through our website.

What to Do After a Broken Tooth?

Repairing a broken tooth is an emergency dental service, so you should see a dentist in Bel-Nor, MO immediately after you discover the tooth is broken. If you have a cracked tooth where you just lost some of your tooth’s outer layer, you may not feel any pain. The enamel that covers our teeth is the most durable tissue in our bodies. Yet, because of decay or enough force, it’s not unbreakable. In those instances, the inner pulp can be exposed, leading to pain and, if untreated, infection.

There are some things you can do at home to help manage any symptoms and ensure things at the dentist go smoothly:

• Gather any substantial pieces of the tooth that broke off
• Wash what’s left of your tooth with salt water
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if you’re in pain (NOT a topical oral pain reliever)
• If the tooth has a jagged edge, you can protect it with some sugarless gum
• Don’t eat hard foods and don’t use that side of your mouth to chew

If you notice any uncovered yellow dentin or red tooth pulp, see your Bel-Nor, MO dentist immediately.

5 Kinds of Broken Tooth

Broken teeth are often described by the severity of the crack and its location on the tooth. In general, broken teeth are broken down into five types:

1. Craze lines are small cracks that only affect the outer enamel. These are pretty ordinary, and they can be hard to discover. They often don’t require treatment except for if the cracks are on the front teeth.
2. A fractured cusp occurs when a piece of the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off. These happen more easily to teeth with large fillings. These usually don’t affect the pulp and therefore don’t result in much pain, however you may experience some sensitivity to temperatures.
3. A cracked tooth means the fracture goes from the top of the tooth toward its root. As the crack can spread, saving the tooth requires an early diagnosis. If the crack extends below the gum line the tooth will likely have to be extracted.
4. A split tooth occurs when the crack in a tooth is not treated promptly. In these cases, the tooth has split entirely in two. Most times it won’t be possible to repair your mouth without extracting the tooth.
5. Vertical root fractures start below the gum line and extend up, instead of a crack on the top of the tooth extending down. You may not have many symptoms, and often a vertical root fracture can go undetected for a long period. Problems arise when the crack starts damaging surrounding gums and bone, however they are detectable in an x-ray during your twice yearly dentist appointment. The tooth may have to be taken out, but often a skilled Bel-Nor, MO dentist can restore the tooth with endodontic surgery.

If you think you’re having symptoms of a broken tooth, see a dentist at your earliest convenience. One of the benefits of having biannual dental examinations is that your dentist will be able to tell if you have any dental problems you’re not aware of.

Causes of Broken Teeth in Bel-Nor, MO

A broken tooth is always unexpected, but the circumstances surrounding many of them isn’t unique. Some common causes include:

• An injury to the mouth or face — An injury to the face or mouth, such as during athletic events or an accident, can cause a tooth to break.
• Biting down on hard objects — Biting down on hard objects like ice, nuts, or inedible object can also lead to a broken tooth.
• Cavities or decay — When a tooth is weakened by decay, it can become more prone to cracking.
• Poor dental hygiene — Not following proper dental health can weaken your teeth and gums and make them more vulnerable to damage.
• Teeth grinding — Also known as bruxism, teeth clenching or grinding can lead to a broken tooth.

It’s essential to seek treatment early to prevent further damage or infection. Ignoring a broken tooth can lead to more serious complications, such as infection, periodontitis, and even tooth loss.

Treatment Options for Broken Teeth in Bel-Nor, MO

The treatment for a broken tooth will depend on your specific situation. We will try to avoid extracting the tooth, but even if it has to be extracted a knowledgeable dentist will be able to keep your teeth functional and return your full smile through other methods. Below are several treatments that your Bel-Nor, MO dentist may suggest:

• Dental bonding — For minor chips or cracks, dental bonding may be an option. In this procedure, a tooth-colored resin material is applied to the damaged area and then hardened with a special light. Bonding can typically be completed in one appointment and is among the cheaper options for fixing a broken tooth. Bonding is a good option for fixing your tooth’s appearance, but may not be the best option for more severe damage.
• Dental veneers — For more serious damage, a dental veneer may be a good option. A veneer is a thin coating of porcelain or composite material that is custom-made to fit over the front surface of the tooth. Veneers can improve the appearance of a broken tooth and are durable if taken care of properly. The process involves removing a small amount of enamel from the broken tooth, then attaching the veneer to the tooth. Veneers cost more than bonding, but can provide a long-lasting, natural-looking solution for a broken tooth.
• Dental crowns — For severe damage or decay, you may require a dental crown. A crown is a cap that is placed over the entire tooth to restore normal appearance and functionality. Crowns can be made from numerous different substances, such as porcelain or metal, and are incredibly durable if taken care of properly. The procedure involves removing the damaged part of the tooth and capping what’s left with a crown. Crowns are often the best choice for extensive damage.
• Root canal — If the damage to the tooth has reached the pulp, a root canal may be necessary. In this procedure, the damaged part of the inner tooth is taken out, and the root canals are cleaned and sealed. A cap is then placed on top of the tooth to protect it and restore its function. Root canals are often necessary for restoring structure and preventing further damage to the tooth.
• Dental implants — If the broken tooth has to be pulled, dental implants are the modern alternative to permanent tooth replacement. With an implant, a small titanium post will be affixed to your jawbone, and a porcelain crown that looks and acts just like a natural tooth is capped onto the screw. The process usually takes place in three appointments:
  1. The screw is attached
  2. After the screw forms a permanent bond with the bone, your Bel-Nor, MO dentist will make impressions for the crown
  3. The crown is placed over the screw

  Before the permanent replacement is ready, we can fit you to temporary replacements that also look and act like normal teeth.

Unlike fractures in your legs, arms, or elsewhere, broken teeth do not completely heal. Getting treatment manages pain, makes it less likely that a crack will spread, ensures the tooth can function normally, and can restore a confident, bright smile.

Preventing Broken Teeth in Bel-Nor, MO

While we can’t control the unexpected, there are things you can do to prevent broken teeth:

• Avoid chewing on hard objects — Refrain from biting down on hard objects such as ice or inedible objects.
• Wear a mouthguard — If you play sports or are a weekend warrior, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from trauma and injury.
• Practice good dental hygiene — Brushing and flossing and seeing your dentist twice a year for examinations and cleanings and polishings can make your teeth stronger.
• Address dental problems promptly — If you have decay, gingivitis, or another dental issue, seek treatment as soon as possible. Ignoring dental problems can weaken teeth.
• Consider protective dental treatments — If you have weak or brittle teeth, your dentist may advise a protective dental treatment, such as a fluoride treatment or dental sealants, to help protect your teeth.

Call Plaza Dental Center For Your Broken Tooth Repair in Bel-Nor, MO

A broken tooth can be a painful and inconvenient experience, but there are several options available for repairing the damage. It’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent further damage or infection. At Plaza Dental Center, we take great pride in helping Bel-Nor, MO residents regain the function and confidence of their smiles. We’re especially interested in helping patients who are apprehensive about going to the dentist. Call 314-361-1818 or make an appointment through our website for your broken tooth repair in Bel-Nor, MO.