Broken and Cracked Teeth: 

What You Need to Know About Dental Trauma

A broken or cracked tooth can be a painful and stressful experience. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the signs, symptoms, and necessary steps to protect your dental health.

Types of Tooth Damage

Dental injuries can range from minor chips to severe fractures:

Cracked Tooth: A line or fracture in the tooth's surface
Broken Tooth: Significant structural damage involving tooth loss
Chipped Tooth: Small piece of tooth enamel missing

Common Causes of Tooth Damage

Physical Trauma

Sports injuries
Accidents
Falls

Dental Weakening

Large fillings
Tooth decay
Age-related wear
Teeth grinding (bruxism)

Symptoms to Watch For

Immediate Red Flags:

Sharp pain when biting or chewing
Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
Visible crack or missing tooth fragment
Swelling around the affected tooth
Intermittent pain that comes and goes

Immediate Steps After a Tooth Injury

Rinse mouth with warm water
Apply cold compress to reduce swelling
Contact your dentist immediately
Save any broken tooth fragments
Use over-the-counter pain relief if needed

Professional Treatment Options

Minor Damage:

Dental bonding
Tooth-coloured fillings
Dental veneers

Significant Damage:

Dental crowns
Root canal therapy
Tooth extraction and replacement

Prevention Strategies

Wear mouthguards during sports
Avoid chewing hard objects
Address teeth grinding
Maintain regular dental check-ups
Practice good oral hygiene

When to Seek Immediate Dental Care

Emergency Situations:

Severe pain.
Bleeding that won't stop.
Tooth was completely knocked out.
Signs of infection.
Significant swelling.

Conclusion

Prompt attention to a broken or cracked tooth can prevent further complications and save your dental health. Always consult a professional dentist for personalized treatment. Our highly experienced team at Aberdeen Dental Centre is always available to help you with all your dental needs. We are also one of the best dentists and dental clinic in Albany, WA, and all our Dentists are registered with ADA, ADC and the Dental Board of Australia.

Aberdeen Dental Centre is at 60 Aberdeen Street, Albany, WA 6330. Phone: 08 9842 2345