A cracked or broken tooth can be a shocking and painful experience. Your first thought is likely, “Can it be saved?” The answer depends on the type and severity of the fracture, but in many cases, it can. This guide explains the possibilities and the one step that matters most: seeking immediate help from a dental clinic in Bali.
Not All Fractures are the Same: Types of Cracked Teeth
The term “cracked tooth” can describe several types of fractures, each with a different level of severity and prognosis. Understanding the type of fracture is the first step in determining the right treatment.
Craze Lines
These are tiny, shallow cracks that only affect the outer enamel. They are very common in adult teeth and are usually a cosmetic issue that does not require treatment unless for aesthetic reasons.
Fractured Cusp
This occurs when a piece of the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off, often around a filling. It doesn’t typically damage the pulp (nerve) and usually isn’t a source of major pain.
Cracked Tooth
This describes a crack that extends from the chewing surface vertically down towards the root. The tooth is still in one piece, but the crack can gradually spread. It is crucial to treat a cracked tooth as early as possible to prevent the crack from worsening.
Split Tooth
A split tooth is often the result of an untreated cracked tooth. The crack has spread to the point where the tooth has split into two or more distinct, moveable segments. It is rarely possible to save the entire tooth.
Vertical Root Fracture
This is a crack that begins in the root of the tooth and extends upward toward the chewing surface. They often show minimal symptoms and can go undetected for a long time until the surrounding bone and gum become infected.
Treatment Options: How a Dentist Can Save a Broken Tooth
A dentist’s primary goal is always to save your natural tooth if possible. Depending on the severity of the fracture, several restorative options are available:
For minor chips or fractures, dental bonding using a tooth-coloured composite resin can often restore the tooth’s shape in a single visit. For a larger fracture or after a root canal, a dental crown (or cap) is used to cover the entire tooth, holding it together and protecting it from further damage. If the crack has reached the soft inner tissue of the tooth (the pulp), a root canal treatment may be necessary to remove the damaged pulp and save the tooth from infection and extraction.
When is Extraction the Only Option?
Unfortunately, not all teeth can be saved. An extraction becomes the necessary course of action under certain conditions, including:
- If the crack or fracture extends deep below the gumline.
- If the tooth has split into multiple segments that cannot be repaired.
- If a vertical root fracture is too severe.
- If the remaining tooth structure is too weak to support a restoration.
The Most Critical Factor: Time
With a cracked tooth, time is of the essence. A small crack can spread with the daily pressures of chewing. As specialists like the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) emphasize, treating a cracked tooth promptly is critical to prevent the crack from spreading and to dramatically increase the chances of saving it. The longer you wait, the higher the risk of the crack worsening or infection setting in, which can turn a salvageable tooth into one that requires extraction.
Conclusion
A cracked or broken tooth is a serious dental emergency that requires immediate professional evaluation. While the thought of extraction can be daunting, remember that fast action provides the best possible chance of saving your tooth with less invasive and more affordable treatments. This proactive approach is a critical part of your overall dental care in Bali. At Unicare Clinic, our team is ready to provide a swift diagnosis and guide you toward the best solution for your situation.
HAVE A CRACKED OR BROKEN TOOTH? GET HELP IMMEDIATELY.
Do not wait. The viability of your tooth depends on fast action. Our English-speaking emergency dental team is on standby to provide an immediate assessment and treatment.
For an appointment or to ask further questions, our 24/7 hotline is your best first contact:
Call / WhatsApp: +62 822-9829-8911
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
I broke my tooth but it doesn’t hurt. Do I still need to see a dentist?
Yes, immediately. Many cracks don’t cause pain initially but can allow bacteria to enter the tooth, leading to a serious infection later. Early treatment is crucial.
What should I do with the piece of my tooth that broke off?
If you can find it, place it in a small container with milk or your own saliva and bring it with you to the dentist. Sometimes, it can be re-bonded.
What can I do for the pain until I get to the clinic?
You can take over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, and apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling.
How does a dentist fix a cracked tooth?
It depends on the severity. Minor cracks can be fixed with dental bonding, while more significant ones often require a dental crown to hold the tooth together and prevent the crack from spreading.
Will my tooth look normal again after being repaired?
Yes. Modern restorative materials like composite resin and porcelain are designed to match the color and translucency of your natural teeth, making repairs virtually invisible.
How much does it cost to fix a broken tooth in Bali?
The cost varies widely depending on the type of repair needed (bonding, root canal, crown, etc.). An emergency consultation and x-ray is the first step to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
My tooth is just slightly chipped. Is that a big deal?
Even a small chip can have sharp edges that irritate your tongue or cheek, and it can make the tooth more vulnerable to further fracture. It’s best to have it smoothed or repaired.
Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?
No. Unlike a bone, a tooth cannot heal itself once it has cracked. It will only stay the same or worsen over time without treatment.
What happens if I ignore a cracked tooth?
The crack can spread deeper into the tooth, eventually reaching the nerve (requiring a root canal) or splitting the tooth entirely (requiring an extraction). It can also lead to a painful infection.
If my tooth has to be extracted, what are my options for replacing it?
There are excellent, long-term options for replacing a tooth, including a dental bridge or a dental implant. Your dentist can discuss these with you.
