Don't Let a Broken Tooth Hold You Back

You may notice cracks or chips in your teeth when looking in the mirror. Discolouration of the tooth enamel may also be seen. In some cases, there are sharp edges on the tooth.

We highly recommend that you visit your dentist for a more accurate assessment and proper management.

The following is some advice to prevent a chipped or broken tooth:

• Brushing with fluoride toothpaste strengthens your teeth.
• Avoiding hard and crunchy snacks like nuts and ice cubes can prevent the chipping or breaking of the enamel.
• Wearing a mouthguard when playing sports can protect you from dental trauma.
• Visiting the dentist regularly helps you maintain healthy teeth and prevent the development of tooth decay.

In some cases, you can manage it at home. If the chip is small, it may not require medical treatment. The first step to managing a chipped or broken tooth at home is to rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss around the area to remove food particles that may have become lodged in the damaged area.

In more severe cases, such as when the chipped or broken part of the tooth is large and reaches the dentine or the pulp, it is necessary to visit a dentist for management. The dentine is an inner layer of the tooth that is yellow; you’ll know it has reached that part when you feel sensitivity on your teeth. On the other hand, the pulp is the tooth’s innermost layer; you’ll know the damage has reached it if your teeth bleed.

A chipped or broken tooth causes pain if the tooth’s nerve endings are exposed. The pain depends on the size and location of the fracture.

It is important to visit the dentist to assess the extent of the damage to the chipped or broken tooth.

In some cases, it may indicate that there is tooth decay or even infection in the tooth’s pulp. A cracked tooth may also indicate underlying dental issues such as bruxism (teeth grinding).

If left unmanaged, a broken or chipped tooth can cause further damage to your oral health. Fragments of broken teeth may become lodged in the gums, causing pain and discomfort. It may lead to an increased risk of gum disease and other dental problems. Additionally, the uneven surface of the broken or chipped tooth may make it more challenging to keep the area clean and cause damage or injury to the tongue or inside of the cheeks.

Furthermore, a severely chipped tooth often exposes the dentine, which is the inner structure of the tooth. It can make the tooth more vulnerable to cavities and infections. It could also damage the dental pulp, which contains the nerve of the tooth. It may lead to a dental abscess.

It is important to seek dental care to prevent further damage to your chipped or broken tooth. The management of your chipped or broken tooth depends on its severity and its cause.

In the meantime, we suggest avoiding overly hot or cold foods and drinks to prevent irritation to your teeth. Also, refrain from chewing on hard items like ice cubes or hard candy to prevent other teeth from chipping. If you are experiencing pain, you can take over-the-counter pain medication while waiting for your dentist appointment.

Yes, it is possible to chip or break a tooth without knowing it. A tooth may be fractured due to trauma or biting something hard, but the damage may not be visible to the naked eye. It’s essential to pay attention to any changes in your teeth and to look out for pain or sensitivity.