Cracked or Broken Teeth in Melbourne CBD
The highly experienced dental team at Collins Dental Image is committed to providing you and your family with a comprehensive range of dental services, including hygienist-led preventative care, various restoration options and emergency care. Did you know that one of the most common dental emergencies is a cracked or broken tooth?
Causes of Tooth Fractures
Several things can affect a tooth’s strength, making it more susceptible to cracking or breaking. In some cases, you may be aware of the fracture when it happens. In other cases, cracks can develop over time without an acute injury or trauma. Some common causes include:
- Old or large fillings
- Biting down on hard substances
- Teeth grinding
- Ageing teeth
- An injury, such as a blow to the face in an accident or playing sport
- Temperature extremes
Symptoms
When the integrity of the tooth is compromised through a crack or fracture, you may experience a variety of symptoms, depending upon the severity of the breakage and how exposed the nerve root is. People often experience some or all of the following: pain when chewing, tooth sensitivity, as well as swelling and irritation in surrounding gum tissue.
It’s possible to have a cracked tooth and have no symptoms. That’s one reason we recommend coming in for your regular checkups and a clean with our hygienist, so we can assess the condition of your teeth and identify any cracks before they become more severe and lead to issues like root infection or split teeth.
Treatment Options
Your dentist will determine the best course of action to treat your fractured tooth based on a thorough examination, including any necessary photos and X-rays. They will explain your options and answer all of your questions, so you understand the process and can make an informed decision. Treatment recommendations may include options such as:
Occasionally, a crack is so severe, the tooth will require extraction and then replacement with a dental implant .
Schedule Today
If you know you’ve broken a tooth, or if you have symptoms like a severe toothache or swelling, or want your teeth assessed to ensure they don’t crack while on holidays, contact us right away to book in for an appointment.
Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.