Some dental fractures are minor, while others can significantly affect the tooth’s enamel. Sometimes a fractured tooth can even lead to damage to the pulp, nerve, or root of the tooth.
Even if you don’t experience any immediate pain or sensitivity in the tooth, the compromised tooth enamel could trap bacteria and create a new cavity. When this happens, the tooth decay can spread to the interior of the tooth.
If a dental fracture is significant, or the surrounding tissues have also been affected, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible.
In the meantime, use a lukewarm salt water solution to rinse the blood, or debris from your mouth. If the fractured tooth is causing you immediate pain or discomfort, you can try a cold compress or an over-the-counter pain reliever. If the pulp, root or nerve is damaged, the dentist may recommend a root canal. A root canal will remove the damaged pulp and save the structure of the tooth. The dentist can discuss covering the tooth with a crown during a later appointment.
If you have a tooth that has been giving you trouble, our dentist, Dr. Brawley Marze at Marze Dental in Sherman, Texas at 903-892-4531. We look forward to helping you have a healthy smile.