Smile Perfections Dental & Cosmetic Clinic
We offer a number of treatment options for patients who have broken a tooth here at Smile Perfection. The best treatment for you will depend on a number of factors, the nature of the break and which tooth is broken.
If you break a tooth, don’t try to replace it back into your gum yourself. Keep the fragment in a clean container, covered with milk or saliva, and book an appointment with us. It is possible to reattach the broken fragment of the tooth in some cases. If not, don’t worry – there are a number of alternative options available.
If you’ve just broken a tooth, don’t panic. Take these immediate steps to manage the situation and protect your oral health:
Gently rinse your mouth with a lukewarm saltwater solution to cleanse the area and reduce the risk of infection.
If you’re experiencing pain or swelling, hold a cold compress against your cheek near the affected area to help minimise discomfort and inflammation.
If you’ve managed to save the broken piece of tooth, proper handling is crucial:
Pick up the tooth fragment by the crown (the visible part of the tooth), avoiding contact with the root.
Store the fragment in a small container filled with milk or your own saliva to keep it moist. This can increase the chances of successful reattachment by your dentist.
While awaiting professional dental care, you can take steps to protect the remaining tooth structure:
If the broken tooth has sharp edges, cover them with dental wax or temporary filling material from a pharmacy to prevent injury to your tongue or cheeks.
Steer clear of very hot or cold foods and beverages, as well as sugary or acidic items, to prevent sensitivity and further damage to the exposed tooth structure.
It’s crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible after breaking a tooth:
Call your dental practice straightaway to schedule an emergency appointment. Many dentists reserve time for urgent cases like broken teeth.
Provide your dentist with details about how the tooth broke and any symptoms you’re experiencing, such as pain or sensitivity.
While waiting to see your dentist, you may need to manage any discomfort:
Take paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed to help alleviate pain. Avoid aspirin, as it may increase bleeding if there’s any soft tissue injury.
Apply an over-the-counter dental anaesthetic gel containing benzocaine to the affected area for temporary pain relief.
Taking these steps immediately after breaking a tooth can help protect your oral health, minimise discomfort, and improve the chances of successful treatment by your dentist. Remember, prompt professional care is essential for the best possible outcome.
The urgency of seeking dental care for a broken tooth can vary depending on several factors. Generally, it’s advisable to consult a dentist as soon as possible to prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.
Severe pain may indicate damage to the tooth’s pulp, requiring immediate attention to prevent infection and potential tooth loss.
Minor chips might be less urgent, while significant fractures exposing the tooth’s inner layers necessitate prompt care to avoid further damage and sensitivity.
Some broken tooth scenarios require immediate dental intervention:
If you can see a red or pink spot in the broken area, this might be exposed pulp tissue. Seek emergency dental care to prevent infection and save the tooth.
Teeth broken near the gumline or split vertically need urgent attention to assess viability and prevent bacterial invasion of the root canal.
Certain broken tooth situations, while not emergencies, still require prompt attention:
Sharp fragments can injure your tongue, cheeks, or lips. While not an immediate emergency, you should see a dentist within a day or two to smooth these edges and prevent soft tissue damage.
Visible chips or cracks in front teeth may not pose immediate health risks but can affect your appearance and confidence. Schedule an appointment soon to discuss cosmetic repair options.
Some minor tooth damage may not require immediate professional care:
Tiny chips without pain or sharp edges might be monitored at home initially. However, it’s still wise to have them evaluated at your next routine check-up to ensure they don’t worsen.
These superficial cracks in the enamel usually don’t require urgent treatment but should be mentioned at your next dental visit to monitor for progression.
Delaying treatment for a broken tooth can lead to various issues:
Bacteria entering through the break can infect the pulp, potentially leading to a painful abscess that requires root canal therapy or extraction.
Untreated broken teeth may continue to deteriorate, making eventual repair more complex and costly.
If you can’t see a dentist immediately, take these steps to protect your broken tooth:
Over-the-counter dental cement can temporarily cover the broken area, reducing sensitivity and protecting against debris.
Avoid hard, chewy, or sticky foods that could exacerbate the damage or cause pain.
While the urgency of dental care for a broken tooth varies, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Contact your dentist promptly to describe your situation and get professional advice on how quickly you need to be seen. Timely intervention can often mean the difference between saving a tooth and losing it, so don’t hesitate to seek professional care when you experience any form of dental trauma.
To address whether a broken tooth can heal on its own, it’s crucial to understand the composition of teeth. Unlike bones, teeth don’t contain living cells capable of regeneration.
The outer layer of the tooth, enamel, is the hardest substance in the human body but lacks the ability to regenerate once damaged.
Beneath the enamel lies dentine, which can produce a limited defensive response to injury but cannot fully repair itself.
While teeth cannot heal in the traditional sense, the body does have some protective mechanisms:
The pulp, containing blood vessels and nerves, may form secondary dentine as a protective barrier against mild damage or decay.
In cases of very minor enamel damage, remineralisation can occur through the absorption of minerals from saliva and fluoride, strengthening the remaining tooth structure.
Different types of tooth damage have varying degrees of natural recovery potential:
These superficial cracks in the enamel don’t typically worsen and don’t require treatment, though they won’t heal or disappear on their own.
More substantial damage to the tooth structure cannot self-repair and will require professional intervention to prevent further complications.
Some beliefs about tooth healing can be misleading:
A reduction in pain or sensitivity over time doesn’t indicate healing, but rather the pulp’s protective response or nerve desensitisation.
Any apparent visual improvements in a broken tooth are likely due to the edges becoming smoother through normal wear, not actual healing.
While teeth can’t heal independently, timely dental treatment is crucial:
Broken teeth are more susceptible to bacterial invasion, potentially leading to pulp infection or abscess formation if left untreated.
Professional repair can restore the tooth’s structural integrity, allowing for normal chewing and preventing further damage.
Dentists offer various treatments depending on the severity of the break:
For minor chips, composite resin can be bonded to the tooth to restore its shape and appearance.
More extensive breaks may require a crown to fully encase and protect the remaining tooth structure.
While awaiting treatment, it’s essential to take extra care of the affected tooth:
Continue brushing and flossing, but be particularly gentle around the broken area to avoid further damage or pain.
Minimise chewing on the affected side and avoid foods that could exacerbate the damage.
Despite the body’s remarkable healing abilities, teeth unfortunately lack the capacity for significant self-repair. A broken tooth will not heal on its own in the way a cut might heal. However, with proper dental care and timely treatment, most broken teeth can be effectively repaired, restoring both function and aesthetics. If you’ve experienced a broken tooth, it’s best to consult with a dental professional to determine the most appropriate course of action for your specific situation.
Treatment options for a broken tooth depend on the extent of the damage. Your dentist will thoroughly examine the affected tooth to determine the most appropriate course of action.
The dentist will carefully examine the tooth to assess the extent of the fracture and any potential damage to surrounding tissues.
Dental X-rays may be taken to evaluate the internal structure of the tooth and detect any damage to the root or surrounding bone.
For minor chips or cracks, less invasive treatments may be sufficient:
This procedure involves applying a tooth-coloured composite resin to repair small chips or cracks, restoring the tooth’s appearance and function.
For very minor chips, the dentist may simply smooth and polish the affected area to prevent further damage and improve aesthetics.
More significant breaks may require more extensive repair methods:
These thin, custom-made shells of tooth-coloured materials can cover the front surface of broken front teeth, improving both appearance and strength.
For breaks affecting the chewing surface of back teeth, these custom-made restorations can be bonded to the tooth to restore its shape and function.
Extensive damage to a tooth may necessitate more comprehensive treatments:
A crown is a cap that covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, protecting and strengthening severely broken teeth while restoring their appearance.
If the break extends into the tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be necessary to remove infected or damaged tissue before placing a crown.
In cases of severe fractures or when a large portion of the tooth has broken off:
If you’ve saved the broken piece, your dentist may be able to reattach it using dental bonding techniques.
In some cases, a temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth until a permanent solution can be implemented.
When a broken tooth cannot be saved, replacement options are available:
These artificial tooth roots are surgically placed in the jawbone and topped with a crown, providing a permanent and natural-looking replacement for a lost tooth.
A bridge can replace a missing tooth by anchoring an artificial tooth to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants.
Proper care following treatment is crucial for long-term success:
Carefully brush and floss around the repaired tooth to prevent decay and maintain gum health.
Schedule follow-up appointments to ensure the repair remains intact and to address any concerns promptly.
Taking preventive measures can help avoid future dental injuries:
Wear a custom-fitted mouthguard during sports or other high-risk activities to protect your teeth from trauma.
Refrain from using your teeth as tools or chewing on hard objects like ice or pen caps, which can lead to dental fractures.
The appropriate treatment for a broken tooth will depend on various factors, including the location of the tooth, the extent of the damage, and your overall oral health. Your dentist will work with you to determine the best course of action, taking into account both functional and aesthetic considerations. Remember, prompt treatment of a broken tooth is essential to prevent further damage and ensure the best possible outcome.
The cost of repairing a broken tooth can vary significantly depending on several factors:
Minor chips or cracks generally cost less to repair than severe fractures or breaks that affect the tooth’s internal structure.
Front teeth may require more aesthetic considerations, potentially increasing the cost compared to repairs on less visible molars.
For smaller chips or cracks, less invasive treatments are typically more affordable:
This procedure usually ranges from £100 to £400 per tooth, depending on the complexity of the repair and materials used.
Simple contouring or polishing of a slightly chipped tooth may cost between £50 and £300.
More significant breaks often require more extensive repairs, which can increase costs:
Porcelain veneers typically cost between £400 and £1,000 per tooth, while composite veneers range from £150 to £400 each.
These custom-made restorations usually cost between £300 and £800 per tooth, depending on the material and extent of the repair.
Extensive damage to a tooth often necessitates more comprehensive treatments:
The cost of a crown can range from £500 to £1,500 per tooth, depending on the material used (e.g., porcelain, zirconia, or metal alloys).
If required before crown placement, a root canal can add £200 to £700 to the total cost, depending on which tooth needs treatment.
Urgent care for severely broken teeth may incur additional costs:
Emergency dental appointments outside regular hours can add £100 to £250 to the standard treatment cost.
Immediate, temporary repairs such as provisional crowns may cost £50 to £200, in addition to the eventual permanent restoration.
When a broken tooth cannot be saved, replacement options vary in price:
A single tooth implant, including the crown, typically costs between £1,500 and £3,000.
A traditional bridge to replace a missing tooth usually ranges from £800 to £2,500, depending on the number of teeth involved and materials used.
Several other factors can influence the overall expense of treating a broken tooth:
Prices may be higher in urban areas or at practices with state-of-the-art facilities and technology.
Highly experienced specialists or cosmetic dentists may charge more for their services.
Various payment options can help manage the costs of dental treatments:
Many dental practices offer interest-free or low-interest payment plans to spread the cost of treatment over several months.
While not as common in the UK as in some other countries, private dental insurance plans may cover a portion of the repair costs.
It’s important to note that these prices are approximate and can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances and the specific dental practice. To get an accurate estimate for your broken tooth repair, it’s best to consult with a dentist who can assess your specific situation and provide a detailed treatment plan with associated costs. Many dental practices offer free initial consultations, allowing you to discuss your options and understand the potential expenses before committing to treatment.
The level of discomfort experienced during and after a broken tooth repair can vary depending on several factors. Modern dentistry prioritises patient comfort, employing various techniques to minimise pain.
Minor chips or cracks typically involve less invasive procedures, resulting in minimal discomfort compared to more extensive fractures.
Each person’s sensitivity to dental procedures differs, influencing their perception of pain during treatment.
Dentists use various methods to ensure patient comfort throughout the repair process:
For most broken tooth repairs, a local anaesthetic is administered to numb the affected area, ensuring you feel no pain during the procedure.
For anxious patients or complex repairs, sedation dentistry techniques like nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or oral sedatives may be offered to enhance relaxation and comfort.
The type of repair can influence the level of discomfort experienced:
This minimally invasive procedure for minor breaks typically causes little to no discomfort and often doesn’t require anaesthesia.
While not usually painful due to local anaesthesia, you may feel pressure or vibration during the tooth preparation process for a crown.
After the repair, some patients may experience temporary sensitivity:
Your repaired tooth might be sensitive to hot or cold temperatures for a short period, typically resolving within a few days to weeks.
Slight discomfort when biting down may occur if the repair affects your bite, but your dentist can easily adjust this during a follow-up appointment.
Various methods can help manage any post-treatment discomfort:
Paracetamol or ibuprofen can effectively manage mild pain or sensitivity following a broken tooth repair.
Using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help alleviate lingering sensitivity in the repaired tooth.
More extensive repairs may involve slightly more discomfort:
While the procedure itself is painless due to anaesthesia, some patients may experience mild soreness for a few days afterwards.
The surgical placement of implants for severely broken teeth can cause some post-operative discomfort, but this is typically manageable with prescribed pain relief.
Taking preventive measures can help avoid painful dental injuries:
Wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during sports or physical activities can prevent painful tooth fractures.
Routine dental visits allow for early detection of potential issues, preventing painful complications from untreated minor cracks or chips.
Open dialogue with your dental team is crucial for a comfortable experience:
Express any concerns about pain or anxiety before the procedure, allowing your dentist to tailor the approach to your needs.
Agree on a signal to use during the procedure if you experience any discomfort, enabling immediate action from your dentist.
While the idea of repairing a broken tooth might seem daunting, modern dental techniques and pain management strategies ensure that the process is typically far more comfortable than patients often anticipate. Your dentist’s primary goal is to restore your tooth’s function and appearance while keeping you as comfortable as possible throughout the treatment. By maintaining open communication with your dental team and following post-treatment care instructions, you can expect a relatively pain-free experience in repairing your broken tooth.
The duration of a broken tooth repair can vary significantly depending on several factors:
Minor chips may be fixed in a single short visit, while more severe fractures might require multiple appointments over several weeks.
Different repair methods have varying timeframes, from quick bonding procedures to more complex restorative treatments.
Some broken tooth repairs can be completed in a single, brief appointment:
This procedure for small chips or cracks typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth and can often be completed in one visit.
Smoothing out minor chips or rough edges usually takes only 15 to 30 minutes and can be done immediately.
More significant damage may require longer appointments or multiple visits:
The process usually involves two appointments: one for preparation (about 60 minutes) and another for placement (30 to 60 minutes), typically spaced 1-2 weeks apart.
These custom restorations generally require two visits: an initial appointment for preparation and impressions (60-90 minutes) and a second for placement (30-60 minutes), usually scheduled 1-2 weeks apart.
Severe damage often necessitates more comprehensive procedures:
The crown process typically involves two appointments: preparation and temporary crown placement (60-90 minutes) and permanent crown fitting (30-60 minutes), usually scheduled 2-3 weeks apart.
If required before crown placement, a root canal can take 60-90 minutes for a single appointment or may be spread across 2-3 visits of 30-60 minutes each, depending on the complexity.
Urgent treatments for severely broken teeth may have different timelines:
Emergency appointments for pain relief or temporary repairs usually last 30-60 minutes and aim to stabilise the tooth until permanent treatment can be arranged.
Some dental practices offer CAD/CAM technology for same-day crown creation and placement, which can take 2-3 hours in a single visit.
When a tooth is too damaged to repair, replacement procedures have varying timeframes:
The entire process can take 3-6 months or longer, involving surgery for implant placement, a healing period, and then crown attachment.
Traditional bridges typically require two appointments spaced 2-3 weeks apart: one for preparation (60-90 minutes) and another for placement (30-60 minutes).
After the main repair, additional appointments may be necessary:
Brief 15-30 minute appointments may be required in the weeks following treatment to ensure proper fit and comfort of the repair.
Regular check-ups, typically every 6 months, help ensure the longevity of the repair and overall oral health.
Certain circumstances can prolong the repair process:
Patients with dental phobias may require additional time or multiple shorter appointments to complete treatments comfortably.
Unforeseen issues like infections or the need for additional procedures can extend the overall treatment timeline.
The time required to fix a broken tooth can range from a quick 30-minute procedure to a series of appointments spanning several months, depending on the specific circumstances. Your dentist will provide a personalised treatment plan outlining the expected timeline for your particular case. Remember that investing the necessary time in proper repair and restoration of a broken tooth is crucial for long-term oral health and function. Always consult with your dental professional for the most accurate estimate based on your individual needs and the complexity of the required treatment.
When you experience a dental fracture, it’s crucial to take immediate precautions to protect your oral health. Eating normally with a broken tooth is not advisable, as it can lead to further complications and discomfort.
Apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling and numb the pain. Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can also help manage discomfort.
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to cleanse the area and prevent infection. If possible, cover the broken tooth with dental wax or temporary filling material from a pharmacy to protect it until you can see a dentist.
While waiting for professional dental care, it’s essential to modify your diet to prevent further damage and alleviate discomfort.
Opt for a diet consisting of soft, easily chewable foods such as soups, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and yoghurt. These put less stress on the broken tooth and surrounding areas.
Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages, as the broken tooth may be sensitive to temperature changes. Lukewarm options are generally more comfortable.
Continuing to eat normally with a broken tooth can lead to several complications that may exacerbate the issue and require more extensive treatment.
Further damage to the tooth could expose the pulp, leading to increased sensitivity, pain, and the potential need for root canal treatment.
A broken tooth creates an entry point for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and decay. This can lead to more serious dental problems if left untreated.
Seeking prompt professional care is crucial for properly addressing a broken tooth and preventing long-term complications.
Your dentist will evaluate the extent of the damage using visual examination and potentially X-rays to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Depending on the severity of the fracture, your dentist may recommend treatments such as dental bonding, veneers, or crowns to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
After receiving treatment for a broken tooth, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and follow your dentist’s advice to ensure the longevity of the repair.
Brush gently around the repaired area with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen the enamel. Floss carefully to remove plaque and food particles without dislodging the restoration.
Schedule follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor the repaired tooth and address any concerns promptly.
Dealing with a broken tooth can be challenging, but by taking appropriate precautions and seeking professional care, you can protect your oral health and restore your smile. Remember to prioritise gentle care and a modified diet until you receive proper treatment from a qualified dental professional.
When you experience a dental fracture, taking swift action is crucial to prevent further damage and alleviate discomfort. Follow these steps to protect your broken tooth until you can receive professional dental care.
Gently swish a solution of warm water and salt around your mouth to cleanse the area and reduce the risk of infection. This natural antiseptic can help soothe the affected tooth and surrounding gum tissue.
Use a cold pack or ice wrapped in a towel on the outside of your cheek near the broken tooth. This can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing temporary relief from pain and discomfort.
Safeguarding your broken tooth from further harm is essential while awaiting professional treatment. Consider these protective strategies to maintain your oral health.
Cover any sharp edges of the broken tooth with dental wax, available at most pharmacies. This temporary solution can prevent the jagged tooth from cutting your tongue or cheek and provide a barrier against bacteria.
Refrain from biting or chewing on the side of your mouth with the broken tooth. Additionally, avoid habits like pen-chewing or nail-biting that could exacerbate the damage.
Modifying your diet is crucial to prevent further injury to your fractured tooth and minimise discomfort. Follow these dietary guidelines to protect your dental health.
Opt for a diet of soft, easily chewable foods such as soups, smoothies, and mashed vegetables. These put less stress on your broken tooth and reduce the risk of further damage.
Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages, as the broken tooth may be sensitive to temperature changes. Stick to lukewarm options to prevent discomfort and potential nerve irritation.
Managing pain associated with a broken tooth can help you stay comfortable until you can see a dentist. Try these methods to alleviate discomfort.
Use non-prescription painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage pain and reduce inflammation. Always follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging.
Apply a small amount of clove oil to the affected area using a cotton swab. This natural remedy contains eugenol, which has analgesic and antibacterial properties that can help soothe tooth pain.
Prepare an emergency dental kit to have on hand in case of tooth fractures or other dental issues. This can help you manage the situation more effectively until you can see a dentist.
Keep temporary filling material, available at most pharmacies, in your kit. This can be used to cover the broken tooth and protect it from further damage or sensitivity.
Include a small dental mirror and torch in your kit to help you better examine the affected area and assess the extent of the damage.
While most broken teeth can wait for a scheduled appointment, certain situations require urgent attention. Be aware of these signs that indicate the need for emergency dental treatment.
If you experience intense, persistent pain or significant bleeding around the broken tooth, seek immediate dental care. These symptoms may indicate more serious damage or infection.
In cases where a large portion of the tooth has broken off, try to save the fragment and seek emergency dental treatment. Quick action may increase the chances of successful reattachment.
Protecting a broken tooth before seeing a dentist is crucial for maintaining your oral health and preventing further complications. By following these preventive measures and being prepared with an emergency dental kit, you can effectively manage the situation until you receive professional care. Remember to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to address the broken tooth and restore your smile to its full health and functionality.
While it’s essential to seek professional dental care for a broken tooth, several home remedies can provide temporary relief from pain and discomfort. These natural solutions can help manage symptoms until you can visit your dentist.
Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gently swish it around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This solution can help reduce inflammation and bacteria around the broken tooth.
Apply a cold pack or ice wrapped in a towel to the outside of your cheek near the affected area. This can help numb the pain and reduce swelling associated with the dental fracture.
Several natural herbs and plant-based solutions can offer relief from the pain and sensitivity caused by a broken tooth. These remedies harness the power of nature to soothe dental discomfort.
Apply a small amount of clove oil to the broken tooth using a cotton swab. Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural anaesthetic and antibacterial agent that can help alleviate pain and reduce the risk of infection.
Place a cooled, used peppermint tea bag against the affected area. Peppermint contains menthol, which has numbing properties that can help soothe the pain from a fractured tooth.
Readily available pharmacy products can provide effective temporary relief for a broken tooth. These solutions can help manage pain and protect the damaged area until professional treatment is received.
Cover any sharp edges of the broken tooth with dental wax, available at most chemists. This can prevent further injury to your tongue or cheek and provide a protective barrier for the damaged tooth.
Use an over-the-counter temporary filling kit to cover the broken tooth. These kits usually contain a putty-like material that can be moulded to fit the damaged area, offering protection and reducing sensitivity.
Modifying your diet can significantly reduce discomfort and prevent further damage to a broken tooth. Consider these dietary changes to manage your dental fracture more effectively.
Opt for soft, easily chewable foods such as soups, smoothies, and mashed vegetables. This reduces stress on the broken tooth and minimises the risk of exacerbating the damage.
Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages, as temperature extremes can trigger sensitivity in the fractured tooth. Stick to lukewarm options to prevent discomfort and potential nerve irritation.
Homeopathic remedies can offer an alternative approach to managing the discomfort associated with a broken tooth. While scientific evidence for these methods varies, some individuals find them helpful for temporary relief.
Consider using arnica montana in homeopathic form, which is believed to help reduce pain and swelling. Follow the instructions on the product packaging for proper dosage and application.
This homeopathic remedy, derived from St. John’s Wort, is thought to alleviate nerve pain. It may be beneficial for managing the discomfort associated with a dental fracture involving nerve exposure.
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial when dealing with a broken tooth to prevent infection and further complications. Adapt your oral care routine to accommodate the damaged tooth.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush gently around the broken tooth to avoid causing further damage. Be thorough but cautious when cleaning the affected area.
Rinse with an alcohol-free, antimicrobial mouthwash to help keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection. Look for products containing chlorhexidine, which is particularly effective at controlling oral bacteria.
While these home remedies can provide temporary relief for a broken tooth, it’s important to remember that they are not substitutes for professional dental care. Always seek treatment from a qualified dentist as soon as possible to address the underlying issue and prevent potential complications. These remedies are meant to offer comfort and protection in the interim period before your dental appointment.
