How to Deal with a Broken Tooth or Filling

If you have a broken tooth or a filling that’s come loose, it’s important to book an appointment for dental care as soon as possible because, if left untreated, it can lead to further tooth damage and even infection. If a broken tooth or lost filling causes pain, people are more likely to seek swift treatment, but because it’s not always painful, sometimes people delay taking action, which isn’t wise. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or not, you should still make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to address the problem and have it fixed.

What makes a tooth restorable?

If the damaged tooth has a sound, healthy root and sufficient bone to support it, it can often be repaired and restored for full functionality and cosmetic purposes. When the fracture or damage only affects the enamel or outer layer of the tooth, it can usually be repaired with a filling. A more significantly broken tooth may be rebuilt with crowns or onlays, however, if there’s been major damage to the inner layers of the tooth, it may not be possible to repair it without more invasive procedures. And, of course, a tooth that could have been potentially restored may become unsalvageable if treatment has been delayed too long.

How are broken teeth treated?

There are several approaches that can be taken to help repair a broken or damaged tooth, depending on the extent of the damage and other factors. If the break is clean and the nerve isn’t exposed, your dentist may simply smooth out the jagged edges and bond the tooth. However, if there’s been significant structural damage to the tooth, your dentist may recommend a more intensive process, like applying a crown or even root canal therapy, should there have been an injury to the tooth’s pulp. More serious repairs may require multiple visits to the clinic for the treatment to be completed in stages.

When dealing with a broken tooth, the goal is always to restore function and appearance while minimising discomfort or complications.

What happens when a filling is lost?

If you find that your teeth are starting to hurt when you eat or chew, it’s likely because the inflammation in your gums is causing pressure on the tooth roots. This can lead to serious dental problems if left untreated, so be sure to see a dentist immediately if you’re experiencing any pain when you chew. While it could indicate a cavity or other issue, it’s known to be one of the early warning signs of gum disease.

What to do if you break a tooth or lose a filling

If you break a tooth or lose a filling, it’s important to seek prompt dental care because these can become serious problems if left untreated. At your appointment, Dr Heng will assess the damage to your tooth to see whether it can be repaired and what treatment options would give the best results. This may involve applying a temporary filling or recommending more intensive treatments, such as bonding or crowns, to restore the tooth and prevent further damage. Depending on the nature of your injury and your general dental health, Dr Heng may also recommend preventative treatments to reduce your risk of future problems.

A broken tooth or lost filling requires you to take swift action, so contact us on 07 3382 7500 to make an appointment as soon as possible. We will assess the damage and provide the right treatment to help you get back on track with a healthier smile that looks and feels great.