Broken Teeth

Broken Teeth: Frequently Asked Questions

A broken or cracked tooth can be worrying, especially if you’re unsure what to do next. Whether you’ve chipped a tooth, noticed a crack or damaged a tooth unexpectedly, it’s important to get advice from a dental professional as soon as possible. At Cherry Tree Dental, we’ll assess the damage, explain your options and recommend the most suitable treatment to restore your smile and protect your oral health.

If you have a question that isn’t answered below or you’d like to speak to our team about a broken tooth, please give us a call on 01254 202888.

What should I do if I break a tooth?

• If you break or crack a tooth, it’s important to get in touch with your dentist as soon as you can so the damage can be assessed and treated if needed. In the meantime, try to avoid chewing on the affected side, keep the area clean and avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the tooth. If you’ve broken off a piece of your tooth, keep it safe and bring it with you to your appointment, as your dentist may be able to use it to help with treatment.

Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?

• Unfortunately, a cracked tooth cannot repair itself in the same way that a broken bone can. Once a tooth has cracked, the damage can sometimes worsen over time, particularly when you bite or chew. Getting it checked by a dentist allows us to assess the severity of the crack and recommend treatment to help protect the tooth and prevent further problems.

Is a broken tooth always painful?

• Not every broken or cracked tooth causes immediate pain. Small chips or minor cracks may not cause any noticeable symptoms, while deeper damage can lead to sensitivity, discomfort when biting, toothache or an increased risk of infection. Even if your broken tooth doesn’t hurt, it’s still important to have it checked so any underlying issues can be identified early.

How are broken teeth treated?

• The best treatment for a broken tooth depends on how much damage has occurred and the overall health of the tooth. For minor chips or cracks, treatments such as dental bonding or a filling may be enough to restore the tooth. More significant damage may require a dental crown to strengthen and protect it, while severe cases involving the nerve of the tooth may need root canal treatment or, in some situations, removal of the tooth.

Will I need a crown for a cracked tooth?

• Not every cracked tooth requires a crown, but they are often recommended when a tooth has lost strength, or there is a risk of the crack getting worse. A crown works by covering and protecting the tooth, helping to restore its shape, strength and function. During your appointment, your dentist will assess the damage and explain whether a crown is the right option for you.

When is root canal treatment needed?

• Root canal treatment may be recommended if a crack has reached the inner part of the tooth where the nerves and blood vessels are located, or if an infection has developed. The treatment involves removing the damaged tissue, cleaning the inside of the tooth and sealing it to help save the natural tooth. Your dentist will always discuss your options and explain the best way to restore your smile.