Why did a piece of my tooth break off
Fractured Tooth
There are various causes for fractured or broken teeth. This can commonly occur due to the natural aging process, from grinding the teeth, due to trauma, or from other causes. Many patients do not experience any other symptoms from having a fractured tooth. Some patients begin to notice pain, sensitivity, and swelling following the incident. The dentist can use numerous methods for treating fractures based on the location and severity of the break.
Fractured teeth may also be called a cracked tooth or cracked tooth syndrome (CTS). The fracture will cause a crack to appear on the tooth. Cracks may be small and harmless or severe and a large portion may break off. While tooth fractures are most commonly found in children and older adults, it is possible for a patient of any age to crack their tooth. Patients who think they may have broken their tooth should follow up with the dentist immediately.
The teeth consist of two parts including the crown, which is visible above the gums, and the root, which is below the gums. The crown and root contain the following layers:
1. Enamel – The extremely hard, white outermost surface
2. Dentin – The middle layer of the tooth
3. Pulp – The soft tissue inside the tooth which contains nerves and blood vessels
It is possible for a tooth fracture to impact some or all of the above layers. The recommended treatment for a broken tooth will vary based on the location and severity. Broken teeth can be painful, sensitive, or may result in no symptoms at all. It is important to go visit a dentist as soon as possible. Prompt treatment ensures the best possible outcome and aids in preserving the tooth.
Below is a summary of the most common causes for tooth fractures:
* Age, broken teeth commonly occur in patients over the age of 50
* Biting hard foods, such as ice, candy, and popcorn
* Chewing on hard objects or using the teeth to open things
* Large dental fillings or root canals
* Grinding the teeth or bruxism
* Trauma from a fall, sports injury, accident, or getting hit in the mouth
Fractures most commonly occur on the upper front teeth and the mandibular molars or the teeth in the back of the lower jaw. While a single tooth is typically impacted with a fracture, severe injuries or trauma can result in the fracture of multiple teeth. Patients with decay or dental cavities are at an increased risk for a fracture.
Cracked or broken teeth do not always result in symptoms.
Some of the most common symptoms of a broken tooth include the following:
* Pain when chewing which may come and go
* Increased sensitivity to hot or sweet foods
* Swelling near the affected tooth
* Discomfort when chewing or biting
The recommended treatment will vary based on the location and severity.
Some of the most popular treatments for a broken tooth include the following:
1. Bonding – A plastic resin material is used to fill the fractured portion of the tooth
2. Cosmetic contouring – The dentist will round and polish the rough edge of the broken tooth
3. Crown – A porcelain or ceramic cap is placed on top of the fractured tooth. This solution is commonly used when there is not enough natural tooth to support a veneer
4. Extraction – Complete removal of the tooth is typically a last resort. The tooth often needs to be removed when the root and nerves of the tooth are severely damaged and cannot be repaired
5. Root canal – A root canal removes damaged pulp to prevent further weakening of the tooth. This procedure is used when the fracture extends down into the pulp
6. Veneer – A veneer is a thin porcelain or plastic piece which is placed on the front of the natural tooth’s surface. This is commonly used with minor fractures, chips, cracks, or discoloration
Some dentists may suggest taking no action to treat a broken tooth. This is common when the fracture is on a tooth or in a location which is not visible, the break does not cause pain, or is a superficial hairline crack. Be sure to follow up with your dentist if you suspect you have a fractured tooth. The dentist can determine the severity of the fracture and develop a treatment plan.