Broken Tooth and Infection
If a patient experience a chipped or broken tooth, they should immediately follow up with their dentist. The failure to promptly treat a chipped tooth can result in serious, long-term problems. This article will discuss why immediate treatment is critical and outline some of the possible consequences in delaying treatment.
Broken teeth which are not treated right away can be prone to infection. Infection can quickly progress and get worse when it remains untreated. Severe cases can result in the infection moving into the head and neck. While it is extremely rare, it is possible for chipped teeth to be life-threatening. Patients with a chipped tooth should contact their dentist right away. The dentist will complete a thorough evaluation and determine the best treatment plan. They can work to control the pain and prevent further damage.
Dental Visit
The pain associated with a broken tooth can be severe, minor, or even nonexistent. Regardless of the amount of pain, a broken tooth should be treated as soon as possible. Prompt treatment is critical to preserve the tooth and preserve good oral health. If the issue is not treated right away, it can cause a great deal of pain and serious, long-term issues. Broken teeth can become worse and even require removal. It is possible that a chipped or cracked tooth may not cause immediate pain, however, the tooth can be prone to infection and other serious issues.
Broken teeth which are painful, change color, or are sensitive to heat may have pulp damage. The dentist will need to evaluate the damage to determine if the root was effected. Broken teeth are at an increased risk for infection. When a break in severe and the pulp is exposed, it can put the tooth at higher risk for infection. The pulp contains sensitive blood vessels and nerves. Infection is caused by bacteria in the mouth coming in contact with the pulp. The tissue can also die when cracks extends into the tooth’s pulp.
Repair
For patients with a broken tooth which reaches the pulp, they may require a root canal. Root canals eliminate infected tissue and a seal is then applied to prevent future infection. Minor breaks rarely require a root canal. The repair plan will vary based on the severity of the broken tooth.
In cases of minor chips, cracks, and breaks, the dentist can often use dental bonding or filling. Bonding is commonly used to treat cracks or breaks which occur on the front surface of the tooth. A crown is used when there is a larger break. When the patient has a small crack which damages the enamel, a filling can often be used.
Treatment Delays
There are a few things patients can do to alleviate pain while waiting for an appointment with the dentist. Solutions which can be done at home such as a salt water rinse, over-the-counter pain medication, and dental wax can help relieve pain and prevent further damage. If wax is not available, sugar-free gum can cover a sharp edge for a short period of time. Patients should avoid hard, crunchy foods. They should also avoid use of the damaged tooth while waiting for treatment.
Broken teeth are serious and should be treated right away. They can cause infection and long-term issues when they are not treated in a timely manner. This may lead to the need for an extraction.
Patients with a broken tooth should contact the dentist immediately for evaluation and treatment.