Can a General Dentist Fix My Broken Tooth?

You might get a broken tooth when you bite into something crunchy if your tooth was ready to break. There are several reasons why this can happen with no warning. The good news is that your general dentist can fix a broken tooth. However, if you cannot get an appointment immediately, you may need to see an emergency dentist instead. Continue reading to learn more about broken teeth and what you can do.

Why a tooth may break

Over a longer period of time, the teeth can become weakened from various activities. This includes grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw. Eating hard ice or candy can also damage the enamel. The pulp inside of the tooth has blood vessels and nerves in it.

If the tooth breaks, then it can be very painful. One sign of a crack in the tooth is sudden pain during eating. This happens more if the food is either very hot or very cold. However, the tooth can also break when the patient cannot feel it.

What if the tooth breaks in half?

The patient should call the dentist’s office to get an immediate appointment. It is important to avoid putting off a repair for a broken tooth. The longer the patient waits, the more likely they are to develop an infection. This can spread beneath the teeth and to the gum.

If the patient cannot see the dentist right away, the patient should follow normal oral hygiene. It is important to take care to brush the teeth more gently. It is a good idea to avoid touching the broken part with the toothbrush. The dentist can advise the patient on whether or not to floss.

How a general dentist repairs a broken tooth

The dentist will take a look at the tooth to survey the extent of the damage. That helps them decide on the right treatment for fixing the tooth. However, treating a broken tooth will depend on how extensive the damage is. For example, if a small part broke off, then the patient might only need bonding or a new filling.

If just a small piece of the tooth broke off, some of the tooth might be salvaged. The dentist can place a crown over the tooth to protect and restore it. In some cases, a root canal might be needed to help remove the pulp. This can save the tooth. Without this procedure, the tooth may need to be extracted.

Visit a dentist today for broken tooth repair

Taking action right away can make a huge difference when it comes to fixing a broken tooth. It is important to make an appointment with your general dentist right away. This can be vital when it comes to preventing the complete loss of the tooth. Many dentists agree that it is better to save the tooth instead of putting in a replacement. Contacting a dentist can help you get started with having your broken tooth fixed.

Request an appointment here: https://www.diamondheaddentalcare.com or call Diamond Head Dental Care at (808) 450-2101 for an appointment in our Honolulu office.

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