Broken or Chipped teeth
Restore your teeth to their original shape
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Broken and chipped teeth can arise from various causes, leading to discomfort, aesthetic concerns, and further dental complications if not addressed promptly.
What Are Broken Teeth?
A broken tooth typically refers to the fracturing or splitting of a tooth due to trauma, decay, or excessive pressure. This condition can range from a small crack to a complete break that exposes the tooth’s pulp, which can be extremely painful and may require immediate attention.
What Are Chipped Teeth?
Chipped teeth are often less severe than broken teeth but can still cause significant concerns. A chip is usually a small piece that breaks off from the tooth’s surface. While the chip may not cause pain, it can affect the tooth’s appearance.
What Causes Broken and Chipped Teeth?
Several factors can contribute to the development of broken and chipped teeth, including:
- Accidents or Injuries: Falls, sports injuries, or any trauma to the face can easily result in broken or chipped teeth.
- Dental Decay: Cavities can weaken teeth, making them more susceptible to breaking.
- Bruxism: Grinding or clenching your teeth, often caused by stress, can lead to fractures over time.
- Biting Hard Foods: Chewing on hard objects like ice or hard lollies can chip teeth.
What are the Treatment Options?
If you are experiencing issues with broken or chipped teeth, there are several treatment options available:
- Dental Bonding: For minor chips, we may use a composite resin to reshape and restore the tooth.
- Crowns: If a tooth is significantly broken, a crown may be recommended to provide strength and protection.
- Root Canal Treatment: A root canal may be necessary when a fracture exposes the pulp.
- Dental Veneers: To cover chips, veneers are a great option to return your smile to normal.
What happens if I don’t treat Broken or Chipped Teeth?
Ignoring broken or chipped teeth can lead to a range of complications that may affect your dental health and overall well-being. Here are some potential consequences if you leave these conditions untreated:
- Increased Pain and Discomfort: A broken or chipped tooth can cause sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. Over time, this discomfort may worsen, leading to persistent pain.
- Tooth Decay and Infection: When a tooth is broken, it can create an opening for bacteria to enter, increasing the risk of dental decay and infection. If the tooth’s pulp becomes infected, it may lead to severe pain.
- Aesthetic Concerns: Chipped or broken teeth can significantly impact the look of your smile.
- Increased Treatment Costs: If you delay treatment, the damage can get worse, resulting in you requiring a more complex and expensive dental procedure. Early intervention is critical to minimising costs and ensuring effective treatment.
Prevention Tips
Maintaining your dental health is crucial in preventing broken and chipped teeth. Here are some tips to help protect your teeth:
- Avoid biting down on hard objects.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports activities.
- Address teeth grinding with your dentist.
- Maintain regular dental check-ups to catch any issues early.
