Broken or Cracked Tooth

What Are the Types of Tooth Fracture?

Tooth fractures range from superficial craze lines to cracks that reach the root. The type and severity of the fracture determines the urgency of treatment and the options available, and understanding the different types can help you respond appropriately when a tooth is damaged. Fractures that stay in the outer tooth include:

• Craze lines: Very small, superficial cracks in the outer enamel only. These are common in adult teeth and usually do not require treatment
• Chipped tooth: A small piece of enamel has broken off. This may not cause pain but can create a rough or sharp edge
• Broken cusp: A piece of the chewing surface breaks off, often around a filling. This usually does not affect the pulp

Which Tooth Fractures Are More Serious?

Cracks that extend toward or begin at the root are more serious, because they can worsen or lead to infection:

• Cracked tooth: A crack extends from the chewing surface toward the root. The tooth is not yet separated into pieces, but the crack can worsen if untreated
• Split tooth: A crack has progressed to the point where the tooth is separated into distinct segments. This often results from an untreated cracked tooth
• Vertical root fracture: A crack that begins at the root and extends toward the chewing surface. These can be difficult to detect and may go unnoticed until the surrounding bone or gum becomes infected

What Should You Do Immediately for a Broken Tooth?

If you break or crack a tooth, take these steps while arranging to see a dentist:

1. Rinse your mouth: Use warm water to gently clean the area and remove any debris
2. Save any pieces: If a piece of the tooth has broken off, place it in a small container of milk or saliva and bring it to your appointment
3. Control bleeding: Apply a piece of gauze to the area with gentle pressure. If bleeding is heavy or does not stop, contact our office or visit the emergency room
4. Reduce swelling: Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek, fifteen to twenty minutes on, then off

How Can You Protect the Tooth Until Your Appointment?

Protect the area, chew on the other side, and call us to book an emergency visit:

5. Protect the tooth: If the break has left a sharp or jagged edge, call the office and we will advise you on how to protect your tongue and cheek until your appointment
6. Avoid hard and sticky foods: Do not chew on the side of the broken tooth. Stick to soft foods and lukewarm beverages
7. Call Orion Dental: Contact us to schedule an emergency appointment as soon as possible

When Should You Seek Emergency Care?

While all broken teeth should be seen by a dentist, some situations require more urgent attention:

• The break is large and a significant portion of the tooth is missing
• You can see pink, red, or dark tissue inside the tooth (the pulp is exposed)
• There is severe or persistent pain
• The tooth is loose or displaced
• There is significant swelling in the gum, face, or jaw
• You have difficulty closing your mouth or your bite feels abnormal

If you experience heavy uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing, or suspect a jaw fracture, go to the nearest hospital emergency room.

How Is a Broken or Cracked Tooth Treated?

At Orion Dental, treatment for a broken or cracked tooth depends on the location, type, and severity of the fracture. Our team at our Scarborough and Milton offices will perform a thorough examination, including digital X-rays, to determine the best course of action.

Cosmetic Bonding

For small chips and minor fractures, cosmetic bonding may be used. A tooth-coloured composite resin is applied directly to the tooth, shaped, and hardened with a special light. This is a quick, single-visit procedure.

Dental Crown

For larger breaks, cracks, or weakened teeth, a dental crown provides a full-coverage restoration. The crown fits over the remaining tooth structure like a cap, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made from porcelain, ceramic, or other durable materials.

Porcelain Veneer

For fractures affecting the front teeth, a porcelain veneer may be an option. A thin shell of porcelain is bonded to the front surface of the tooth, providing a natural-looking restoration.

Root Canal Treatment

If the crack or break extends into the pulp (nerve) of the tooth, root canal treatment is needed to remove the damaged nerve tissue and prevent infection. A crown is typically placed after root canal treatment to protect the tooth.

Tooth Extraction

If the tooth is split, has a vertical root fracture, or is otherwise too severely damaged to be restored, extraction may be necessary. Replacement options such as a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture can be discussed afterward.

What Causes Teeth to Break or Crack?

Teeth can break or crack for a variety of reasons:

• Biting on hard objects: Ice, hard candy, popcorn kernels, olive pits, and pen caps are common culprits
• Trauma: Falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and other impacts to the face or mouth
• Large or old fillings: Teeth with large fillings are structurally weaker and more prone to fracture
• Teeth grinding (bruxism): Chronic grinding or clenching places excessive force on teeth and can cause cracks over time. A night guard can help
• Temperature extremes: Eating something very hot followed immediately by something very cold (or vice versa) can cause the tooth to crack
• Age: Teeth naturally become more brittle with age, increasing the risk of fractures
• Untreated decay: Cavities weaken tooth structure and make fractures more likely

How Can You Prevent a Broken Tooth?

These measures can help protect your teeth from fractures:

• Wear a custom mouthguard during contact sports and high-risk activities
• Do not chew on ice, hard candy, popcorn kernels, or non-food objects
• Never use your teeth to open packages, bottles, or tear tape
• If you grind your teeth, ask about a night guard
• Attend regular dental checkups so weakened teeth can be identified and restored before they break
• Address cavities promptly with fillings to maintain tooth strength

Broken or Cracked Tooth Treatment at Orion Dental

If you have broken or cracked a tooth, contact our Scarborough office at 416-291-0306 or our Milton office at 905-636-9770. You can also request an appointment online. We will assess your tooth and recommend the treatment that gives you the best outcome.