A broken tooth can affect your daily life, and minor chips and fractures require attention. When a tooth breaks, it might expose sensitive inner layers, leading to discomfort. Understanding the treatment process helps you be more prepared from your initial consultation to your full recovery. This is what you can anticipate before, during, and after your appointment:
Before Treatment
The process typically begins with a thorough examination of the affected tooth. A dentist can assess the damage, which may involve taking X-rays to see the tooth’s root and surrounding bone. This evaluation helps determine the ideal course of action. The dentist will explain the situation and present the available treatment options for your specific type of fracture.
Based on the initial assessment, you will receive a detailed treatment plan. The plan typically outlines the recommended procedure, the number of visits needed, and the projected costs. You have the opportunity to ask questions, so you can understand the proposed treatment and what it involves. This is the time to discuss any concerns you might have before scheduling the procedure.
During Procedure
When you arrive for your appointment, the dental team prepares you for the procedure. They can make you comfortable in the dental chair, and then they will numb the area around the broken tooth using a local anesthetic. While you may feel a slight pinch during the injection, the area will quickly become numb. This preparation makes the treatment process comfortable.
The specific steps of the procedure depend on the extent of the damage. For a small chip, the dentist might smooth the edge or apply a tooth-colored filling called composite resin. A larger fracture may require a dental crown, which is a cap that covers the entire tooth. The dentist shapes the remaining tooth structure and takes an impression to create a custom-fit crown.
If the break has exposed the tooth’s pulp, a root canal might be necessary. During a root canal, the dentist removes the damaged pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and then seals it. After the root canal, a crown is typically placed to protect the tooth. This process restores the tooth’s function and prevents further issues.
After Treatment
Following the procedure, your mouth will remain numb for a few hours. You will receive specific instructions for care as the anesthetic wears off. It is normal to experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort, which you can manage with over-the-counter pain relievers.
When your tooth breaks, you should stick to soft foods for a day or two and avoid chewing directly on the treated tooth. Proper oral hygiene helps the healing process, and it may shorten recovery. Your aftercare instructions may include:
- Brushing gently around the area.
- Continuing to floss daily.
- Using a prescribed mouth rinse if recommended.
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods.
Fix a Broken Tooth Today
A broken tooth does not have to be a long-term problem, and with modern dental techniques, restoring your tooth is a straightforward process. Addressing the issue promptly helps protect your oral health and brings back your smile. If you have a broken or chipped tooth, schedule an appointment with a dentist to explore your treatment options and start your path to recovery.
