Different Types of Broken Teeth

Types of Broken Teeth – What to Do Next

Are you suffering from a broken tooth? There are several types of broken teeth, tooth fractures, and breaks that require different treatments. Some require immediate attention and others might be able to wait for your next appointment. Learn more below. Need emergency treatment for a broken tooth in Plano, TX? Call (972) 964-3774

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Types of Broken Teeth

• Minor cracks

• Cracked tooth

• Chipped tooth

• Broken Cusp

• Serious breaks

• Split tooth

• Vertical breaks

• Decay-induced breaks

Minor Cracks

– Also called \”craze lines,\” these are surface cracks that affect only the outer white surface of the tooth, called the enamel. Minor cracks rarely need treatment. However, your dentist may lightly polish the area to smooth out any rough spots.

Cracked Tooth 

This type of fracture involves the whole tooth, from the chewing surface all the way down to the nerve. The pieces remain in place, but the crack gradually spreads. Cracks can sometimes be repaired with filling material. The tooth often will need a crown to prevent the crack from getting worse. If the pulp (nerve and other live tissues) is damaged, you may need a root canal as well.

Chips 

Minor chips don\’t always need treatment. Your dentist may suggest repairing the damage with filling material to prevent it from getting worse or to make the tooth look and feel better. If the chip is very small, the dentist may polish and smooth out the chipped area.

Broken Cusp

These breaks affect the pointed chewing surfaces (the cusps) of the teeth. They usually do not affect the pulp and are unlikely to cause much pain. Your dentist may repair the damage to restore the tooth\’s shape. Frequently, however, an inlay or crown will be required.

Related: Six Issues Porcelain Veneers Can Fix

Need emergency treatment for a broken tooth in Plano, TX? Call (972) 964-3774

Serious Breaks

These breaks go deep enough to expose the nerve. They almost always cause the tooth to hurt and be sensitive. Usually, the broken part of the tooth will bleed. You will need root canal treatment to remove the exposed nerve and probably a crown to restore the tooth to normal function so you can eat and chew properly.

Split Tooth

This means that the tooth has split vertically into two separate parts. Some teeth, such as your back teeth (molars), have more than one root. It may be possible to keep one of the roots, which will then be covered with a crown. First, you will need root canal treatment. Second, the dentist will remove any roots that cannot be kept. Third, you will need a crown to cover the root and replace the tooth. In some cases, when a root cannot be saved, the tooth will have to be removed.

Related: Worst foods for your teeth

Vertical Breaks or Split Root 

These cracks start in the root of the tooth and extend upward toward the chewing surface. These breaks are often painful because the area around the root may be inflamed or infected. In most cases, the tooth will have to be removed.

Decay-Induced Break

In this case, the tooth has broken or crumbled because a cavity weakened it from the inside out. Your dentist will evaluate the cavity and recommend the best way to restore the tooth. In some cases, if the decay is extensive and goes down to the bone, the tooth may have to be removed.

We hope that this article helps you if you are dealing with a broken or cracked tooth. We recommend you visit a dentist as soon as possible so they can help you and work to prevent further issues in the future.

Related: Broken Tooth – What do I do?

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David Wilhite is a Plano, Texas Dentist specializing in cosmetic dentistry with over 30 years experience in general and pediatric dentistry.

Let us help you create a beautiful smile!

Contact us online or call (972) 964-3774