Everything You Need to Know About Broken Teeth and Dental Care

Everything You Need to Know About Broken Teeth and Dental Care

1. Is a broken tooth a dental emergency?

A broken tooth can range in severity, from a minor chip to a significant fracture. If the broken tooth is causing severe pain or bleeding, it is considered a dental emergency and should be treated immediately by a dentist. In other cases, it may not be a dental emergency but still should be treated promptly to avoid further damage to the tooth or surrounding tissues.

2. Where did Aspen Dental start?

Aspen Dental was founded in 1997 and has since grown to become a leading provider of dental care services in the United States. The company was established with the goal of making dental care accessible and affordable for everyone and has since expanded to include over 700 practices in 41 states.

3. How do you find a dentist you can trust?

When searching for a dentist, it's important to find one who you can trust and feel comfortable with. Here are some tips to help you find a trustworthy dentist:

• Ask for recommendations from friends, family, and coworkers
• Look for reviews and ratings online
• Check the dentist's credentials and qualifications
• Ask about their approach to dental care and treatment options
• Make sure the office is clean and well-maintained

4. What is a DMD vs DDS?

DMD stands for Doctor of Dental Medicine and DDS stands for Doctor of Dental Surgery. Both degrees represent the completion of a doctoral program in dentistry and indicate that the recipient is a licensed dentist. There is no difference in the education or training received between the two degrees, and they are used interchangeably in the dental profession.

5. Should I brush a broken tooth?

It is generally not recommended to brush a broken tooth as brushing can cause further damage to the tooth or surrounding tissues. If you have a broken tooth, it's important to avoid brushing the affected area and instead rinse your mouth with warm water. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers and a cold compress may help alleviate symptoms until you can see a dentist.

6. How long can I leave a broken tooth in my mouth?

It is not recommended to leave a broken tooth untreated for an extended period of time. Leaving a broken tooth untreated can lead to further damage to the tooth, surrounding tissues, and potentially result in a more serious and complicated dental issue. It is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to determine the best course of treatment for your broken tooth.

7. What are the different treatment options for a broken tooth?

The treatment options for a broken tooth will depend on the extent of the damage. Some common treatments for a broken tooth include:

• Dental bonding – to repair minor chips or cracks in the tooth
• Dental crowns – to cover and protect the tooth, particularly in the case of a large break
• Root canal therapy – if the inner layer of the tooth (the pulp) is damaged, this procedure will remove the damaged pulp and preserve the remaining tooth structure
• Extraction – if the tooth cannot be saved, it may need to be extracted

8. What are some tips for preventing broken teeth?

Broken teeth can occur for a variety of reasons, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of a broken tooth:

• Wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports
• Avoid biting hard objects, such as fingernails or ice
• Practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing
• See your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
• Avoid using your teeth as tools, such as opening packages or cracking nuts

9. What is the cost of fixing a broken tooth?

The cost of fixing a broken tooth will depend on the extent of the damage and the type of treatment required. Simple procedures, such as dental bonding, can be relatively inexpensive, while more extensive procedures, such as a root canal or dental crown, can be more expensive. It's important to discuss the cost of your treatment options with your dentist and insurance provider to determine the best option for you.

10. What should I do if I have a broken tooth outside of normal office hours?

If you have a broken tooth outside of normal office hours, it's important to contact an emergency dental provider as soon as possible. In some cases, they may be able to provide treatment immediately, while in other cases, they may advise you to go to a hospital emergency room for treatment. If you are unable to reach an emergency dental provider, over-the-counter pain relievers and a cold compress may help alleviate symptoms until you can see a dentist.

In conclusion, a broken tooth can range in severity and prompt treatment is important to prevent further damage and complications. It's important to find a dentist you can trust and to take steps to prevent broken teeth, such as practicing good oral hygiene and wearing a mouthguard while playing contact sports. If you have a broken tooth, it's important to seek treatment as soon as possible to ensure the best outcome for your dental health.