Most broken teeth can be saved with timely and appropriate dental care. The extent of the damage plays a crucial role in determining the treatment. Minor fractures may only require bonding or a filling to restore the tooth’s structure. For more severe cases, treatments such as veneers or root canals might be necessary to protect and preserve the tooth. The tooth can typically be stabilised and restored if the root remains intact. Promptly consulting a dentist ensures a better chance of saving the tooth and prevents further complications, such as infection or tooth loss. 

How Do You Care for a Broken or Chipped Tooth?

When dealing with a broken or chipped tooth, proper care can prevent further damage or discomfort while you wait to see your dentist. Managing the pain, protecting the injured area, and ensuring good hygiene can make a significant difference. A broken piece of tooth can be reattached, but it depends on the situation. Handling the tooth fragment correctly gives you the best chance of making reattachment possible. Below are some practical steps to care for the tooth during this time:

• Rinse Gently with Warm Salt Water – Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water and swish gently around the affected area. This helps clean the area and reduces bacteria that could cause infection.
• Apply a Cold Compress to Reduce Swelling – Place ice wrapped in a cloth against your cheek for 15-20 minutes. This reduces inflammation and helps manage pain effectively.
• Save Any Broken Pieces if Possible – Collect any tooth fragments and store them in milk or saliva in a clean container. Your dentist may be able to reattach these pieces during treatment.
• Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief as Directed – Ibuprofen works well for dental pain by reducing pain and inflammation. Follow package directions and avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth.
• Eat Soft and Chew on the Opposite Side – Stick to soft foods like yoghurt, soup and mashed vegetables until your appointment. This prevents further damage to the broken tooth. 

What Can the Dentist Do for a Broken Tooth?

When faced with a broken or chipped tooth, dentists offer several effective treatment options depending on the severity of the damage. Modern dental procedures are designed to restore the appearance and functionality of the affected tooth, helping you regain confidence in your smile. From cosmetic fixes to restorative treatments, the solution is tailored to you. Here are some of the most common approaches a dentist may take to address a broken or chipped tooth:

• Dental Bonding – This treatment uses tooth-coloured resin to repair minor chips or cracks. The resin is shaped to match your tooth and hardened with a special light to provide a seamless result.
• Veneers – Thin porcelain or composite shells are bonded to the front of the tooth to hide imperfections. Veneers are durable and ideal for improving the appearance and strength of a damaged tooth.
• Dental Crowns – A crown covers and protects a severely damaged tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, and strength while blending naturally with surrounding teeth.
• Fillings – When a break or chip exposes decay, a filling repairs the damaged area and prevents further deterioration. It also helps maintain the tooth's structural integrity.
• Inlays and Onlays – If a tooth is too damaged for a filling but doesn’t need a full crown, we can make a custom restoration out of porcelain, ceramic or composite resin that blends with your teeth’s natural enamel.
• Root Canal Therapy – For damage that has reached the tooth’s pulp, a root canal removes infected tissue and seals the tooth. This option alleviates pain and saves the tooth from extraction.
• Dental Implants – When the damage is too extensive to repair, an implant provides a natural-looking and permanent replacement. It functions like a real tooth while preserving the jawbone and surrounding teeth. 

Schedule Your Broken Tooth Treatment Today

We’re here to provide reliable solutions tailored to your dental needs. If you’re wondering, “Do you have to fix a broken tooth?” the answer depends on the specific damage, but timely care prevents complications and ensures optimal results. Trust our experienced team to restore the function and appearance of your teeth with expert care and advanced technologies. Don’t wait until the discomfort worsens. Reach out to schedule your consultation today.

A healthier, more confident smile is within reach. Contact our office today and take the step toward comprehensive dental health.