Why did a piece of my tooth break off?
A fractured or broken tooth can occur from grinding, wear and tear, trauma, and other factors. Common symptoms associated with a broken tooth can include pain, sensitivity, and swelling. In some cases, patients may not experience any symptoms. There are various treatments which can restore a broken tooth. The ideal solution will vary based on the location and severity of the break.
A fractured tooth may also be called cracked tooth syndrome (CTS). A minor crack may be small and not cause any issues, while a severe crack can be serious. In some cases, a large portion of the tooth can break off. Severe cracks typically cause a lot of pain.
Patients of any age can break a tooth, but a break most commonly occurs in patients who are older or children. Patients who suspect they have a broken tooth should follow up with their dentist as soon as possible.
The tooth contains two main parts which includes the crown and the root. The visible portion of tooth above the gums is the crown and the portion of the tooth below the gums is the root.
A tooth consists of three layers:
1. Enamel: the hard, white outer surface
2. Dentin: center portion of the tooth
3. Pulp: the soft tissue and the inner layer containing nerves and blood vessels
The tooth can fracture in just one or all three layers. The dentists will complete an evaluation of the break to determine the specific location and severity. Once the dentist evaluates the damage, they determine the best treatment. A break can cause quite a bit of pain and sensitivity to hot and cold. Fractures may not always cause symptoms. If a patients thinks they may have a break, they should follow up with their dentist right away. Taking prompt action helps ensure the best outcome and can even preserve the tooth.
Top causes for fractured tooth include the following:
- Age – a crack is more common when the patient is over 50
- Bruxism or chronic grinding
- Large fillings or a root canal which weakens the tooth
- Opening items with the teeth, chewing on hard objects, or using them as a tool
- Accidents, injuries, or violence
It is common for a fracture to occur on the upper front teeth or on the back teeth in the lower jaw. While it is most common for a patient to fracture a single tooth, severe injuries can result in damage to multiple teeth. If the teeth have decay or cavities, they are at an increased risk for breaking.
Common symptoms of a broken tooth can include:
- Hot and cold sensitivity
- Pain that is continuous or may be sporadic
- Swelling at the base of the broken tooth
The expected treatment timeline will vary bard on the treatment being used. Repair for a broken tooth typically takes a few weeks or months. Treatments which are more conservative such as bonding can be done in a day. A crown, which is more involved, will require numerous appointments. Patients with a tooth which requires extraction and the placement of a dental implant will take a few months. Dental veneers take a few weeks to place.
A broken tooth is at an increased risk for infection. Symptoms such as bad breath, a fever, sensitivity, pain, and swelling can suggest there is an infection. Infections require prompt treatment to ensure they do not become worse or spread.
Broken teeth are a serious issue which should be treated right away. Patients who may have a broken tooth should contact their dentist immediately.