What Can You Do for a Broken Front Tooth?
Posted on: 24 August 2021
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Tooth trauma of any kind can be upsetting, especially if the tooth is near the front of your mouth. Even if you do not feel pain, the appearance of a broken tooth can cause poor self-esteem and embarrassment. A broken front tooth is a dental emergency, so you need to get medical attention right away. Here are some things you need to know if you break one of your front teeth:
Is the Tooth Still in the Socket?
If you traumatized a front tooth but it is still sitting in the socket, the dentist may still be able to save it. When the tooth is still in the socket, the nerves or roots are likely damaged. If this is not addressed, the nerves and roots will die, and you will lose the tooth. To treat the tooth and restore it, the dentist may use a combination of root canal treatment, splints, and crowns. You will not be able to tell if you have internal damage to the tooth, so be sure to have the tooth checked immediately.
Is the Tooth Broken Off at the Gumline?
If the tooth is broken all the way up to the top or bottom of the gumline, there may still be part of the tooth in the socket. The size of the break will determine exactly how it can be repaired. The dentist may decide to pull the remainder of the tooth and refer you to an orthodontist for a dental implant or a set of porcelain veneers. Otherwise, the dentist may be able to repair what is left of the tooth with a bonded filling if enough of the natural tooth is still available. The health of the nerves and roots will impact the final decision.
Is the Tooth Partially or Fully Out of the Socket?
If your tooth has completely fallen out of the socket, you need to take immediate action. Placing the tooth in a glass of water can help preserve the tooth until you can get to the dentist. Depending on the condition of the tooth and the socket, the dentist may be able to refit it into the socket. If the tooth cannot be saved, you will need a dental implant or a small denture to replace the tooth.
If you have any type of dental trauma, you should go to the family dentist sooner rather than later. You not only have a better chance of restoring your front tooth, but you also will alleviate any feelings of embarrassment.