Broken Teeth – Repair & Treatment in Basingstoke
A broken tooth can be painful, inconvenient, and – if visible – something that makes you feel self-conscious. Whether it’s a sharp chip after biting into something hard, a cracked molar from grinding, or a tooth that’s fractured due to decay, our team is here to help. At Hampshire Dental Care, we treat broken teeth with care, experience and honest guidance, so you can get back to smiling, eating and living comfortably again.
You may not always feel pain with a broken tooth, but that doesn’t mean it can be ignored. Even a small crack can allow bacteria to enter the tooth, which increases the risk of infection or further breakage. That’s why we always recommend seeking professional advice – even if the damage seems minor.
From simple repairs to more involved procedures, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to the condition of your tooth and the result you want to achieve. Our approach is always calm, professional and focused on what’s best for you.
What Causes Teeth to Break?
Teeth can break or fracture for several reasons, including:
Biting down on hard foods or objects
Accidental injury or trauma
Weakened enamel from decay or erosion
Old or worn-out fillings
Grinding or clenching (bruxism)
Damage around a wisdom tooth, especially when partially erupted
Sometimes, part of the tooth breaks off but the root remains in the gums. In this case, we’ll carry out an assessment to determine if the tooth can be saved or whether extraction is necessary.
What Causes Teeth to Break?
Teeth can break or fracture for several reasons, including:
- Biting down on hard foods or objects
- Accidental injury or trauma
- Weakened enamel from decay or erosion
- Old or worn-out fillings
- Grinding or clenching (bruxism)
- Damage around a wisdom tooth, especially when partially erupted
Sometimes, part of the tooth breaks off but the root remains in the gums. In this case, we’ll carry out an assessment to determine if the tooth can be saved or whether extraction is necessary.
Treatment Options for Broken Teeth
Treatment depends on how much of the tooth is damaged, whether the nerve is exposed, and if there’s a risk of infection. Once we’ve assessed the break, we’ll recommend one of the following:
Filling or Composite Repair
For small chips or cracks, we can often repair the tooth with a white filling or cosmetic bonding. This restores shape and strength with minimal drilling and blends in with the surrounding teeth.
Crown Tooth Restoration
If a large part of the tooth is missing or the structure is compromised, we may recommend a crown tooth restoration. A crown (or cap) is a custom-made cover that fits over the remaining part of the tooth to protect it and restore function. It’s a long-lasting and natural-looking option.
Root Canal and Crown
If the inner nerve (pulp) is damaged or infected, a root canal may be needed to clean and seal the root before placing a crown. This saves the tooth and avoids removal, as long as the surrounding bone and gums are healthy.
Tooth Extraction and Replacement
If the tooth is too damaged to be saved – especially if the root is still in the gums and fractured—extraction may be the safest option. We’ll remove the damaged tooth gently and talk you through replacement options such as implants, bridges or dentures.
Wisdom Tooth Removal
A broken wisdom tooth is a common problem, particularly when it’s partially erupted or difficult to clean. If a wisdom tooth is broken, decayed or causing repeated infections, removal is often the best long-term solution.
No matter the option, we’ll explain the treatment clearly, give you time to consider your choices, and work at your pace.
Signs You May Need Treatment
If you’ve experienced a broken tooth, you may notice:
- Sharp or uneven edges catching on your tongue or cheek
- Sensitivity to hot, cold or pressure
- Pain when chewing
- Swelling or discomfort around the tooth or gum
- A visible crack or loss of tooth structure
- A darkening of the tooth (especially after trauma)
Even if you’re not in pain, we recommend getting the tooth checked. Small issues can escalate quickly if left untreated.
Why Choose Hampshire Dental Care?
We know how stressful dental emergencies can be—especially when you’re in pain or unsure what’s happened. Our team is experienced in handling all types of broken teeth, from minor chips to complex extractions. We’re calm, gentle, and focused on solutions that restore your comfort and confidence.
Whether you need a filling, a crown, or a full removal, we’ll make sure you understand your options clearly and receive the treatment that’s right for your long-term oral health. If you’re feeling nervous, we’ll take extra time to explain each step and check in with you throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after breaking a tooth?
Rinse your mouth with warm water and, if there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth. Avoid biting on that side and contact us as soon as possible for an assessment.
Can a broken tooth be left untreated?
We don’t recommend it. Even if the pain settles, the exposed area may be vulnerable to decay or infection. Prompt treatment helps avoid more serious problems later.
Is it possible to save a broken tooth if the root is still in the gums?
In many cases, yes. If the break is above the gum line and the root is stable, we may be able to build the tooth up again. If the root is fractured, extraction may be necessary.
How painful is the treatment?
Most treatments can be done with local anaesthetic to keep you comfortable. If you’re anxious about dental treatment, let us know—we’re experienced in working with nervous patients.
Will a crown tooth look natural?
Yes. We colour-match crowns to your natural teeth, and work with skilled dental labs to ensure the shape and finish blend in beautifully.
If you’ve broken a tooth – whether recently or a while ago – don’t put off getting it checked. We’re here to help you with calm, expert care and a treatment plan that works for you. Contact our friendly team in Basingstoke today to book your appointment.
