Franck Dental Blog

What Happens If I Break Or Crack A Tooth?

Aug 10, 2021

It can happen when you least expect it and without warning. One minute you’re chewing on your leftovers or a piece of candy, the next you’re holding part of your tooth in your hand and you’re confused and worried and wondering what just happened.

The good news is that a chipped or broken tooth can usually be repaired. The first thing you need to do is call us (1-610-444-3212) and explain what happened and that you need to be seen as soon as possible. Below are some suggestions to consider until you can be seen and your broken tooth can be cared for.

N

Do not try to eat with your broken tooth unless you absolutely have to. If you do eat, avoid the area with the broken tooth and only consume soft foods.

N

If you are experiencing pain (and you are able to) take an over-the-counter pain reliever.

N

If you run your tongue over the tooth and it feels sharp you can cover it with a piece of wax paper or sugar-free gum to protect the rest of you mouth until it is resolved.

So what will happen at your dental appointment? Well, that really depends on what kind of shape your tooth is in. If it is a small chip or crack and the majority of the tooth is still intact there is the possibility that the tooth can be filled or built-up to decrease the possibility of further issues. However, there is the chance that you will require more dental work based on your dentist’s recommendation.

For Cracks Or Small Repairs

If your tooth requires minimal work it might be able to be repaired with Dental Filling or Bonding.

If the tooth is near the front where can easily be seen when you smile, your dentist will likely use bonding to “re-create” your tooth with a similar color/shape as the part that was broken.

The great thing about dental bonding is that you will not need novocaine or any other numbing medicine. The dentist will make the tooth rough so that their material will adhere to the broken tooth and then they will apply an adhesive material and a resin. The dentist will then shape the tooth and use a UV light to harden the repair.

For More Extensive Repairs

There are several possibilities that can happen if you have more than a small piece break off or if there is a crack in your tooth. There is the possibility that you may require a dental cap or crown. This crown will protect the tooth and make it look great again.

If the tooth breaks but the root is still there you may need a root canal. Either way if you need a crown, or root canal, or both, you can expect your repair to take at least 2 visits.

No matter how extensive your injury the most important thing is to not hesitate and see your dentist right away. What may seem like a small crack may be more than it appears or what may seem like extensive damage may only require bonding and quick visit to your dentist. No matter which you experience rest assured at C. Christian Franck Dental we will do everything we can to get your smile back in shape.

The information on this Blog is provided for general information, is not intended to provide medical, dental or surgical advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. No dentist/patient relationship is established by your use of this Site. No diagnosis or treatment is being provided. The information contained here should be used in consultation with a dentist of your choice. No guarantees or warranties are made regarding any of the information contained within this Blog.

complimentary dental consultion

Complimentary Consultations

invisalign promo

Invisalign Aligners

zoom whitening promo

Zoom Teeth Whitening

New Patient Special

FREE Take-Home Whitening Kit

($300 Value) *Kit includes custom whitening trays and 2 syringes of whitening gel

Our Hours

Monday 8:30am – 8:00pm
Tuesday 8:30am – 6:00pm
Wednesday 8:30am – 4:00pm
Thursday 8:30am – 5:00pm

C. Christian Franck, DDS

721 East Baltimore Pike Suite 301
Kennett Square, PA 19348