We don’t often think about how much our teeth do for us. They take on pressure, heat, cold, and the wear of daily life without much complaint. In many ways, they’re among the hardest-working parts of the body. They’re strong enough to break down food, durable enough to withstand decades of use, and present for every smile, every sentence, every bite. But strength doesn’t mean invincibility. Enamel is tough, but it can still crack. Chipped or broken teeth can happen from something as simple as an awkward fall, biting into something too hard, or years of nighttime grinding. What holds up under pressure can also reach a breaking point, especially when care is delayed or discomfort is ignored.
We tend to treat our teeth like permanent fixtures: part of the backdrop, reliable and quiet. It’s easy to forget they need just as much attention as anything else we want to preserve. At Atkins Dental Clinic, we can help restore what has been damaged and protect what still functions properly, so that you can move forward with a healthier, more confident smile.
What Broken Teeth Might Be Telling You
A broken tooth rarely happens without a reason. While the break itself may feel sudden, the underlying cause usually develops over time or results from a specific event. When we identify the cause, we gain important insight into the condition of your oral health and the best way to restore it.
Trauma is one of the most common causes. A fall, sports injury, or accidental hit to the face can easily result in a chipped or fractured tooth. Even with healthy teeth, a sudden impact can cause enough force to crack the enamel or break the tooth completely. Biting down on hard items can also create damage. Ice cubes, unpopped popcorn kernels, hard candy, and even pens or fingernails can put stress on a tooth until it gives way. In many cases, the person doesn’t realize the risk until they feel that unmistakable crack.
Tooth decay also plays a significant role. Cavities slowly erode the tooth from within, weakening its structure. When left untreated, even routine chewing can cause the tooth to fracture. Large fillings can also compromise a tooth’s strength. While necessary for repairing decay, extensive or older fillings may leave the remaining tooth more vulnerable to breakage.
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, puts constant pressure on your teeth. Over time, this pressure can create micro-fractures that eventually lead to chips or breaks. Many patients grind their teeth while sleeping, often unaware of the damage until symptoms appear.
Age is often the final piece of the puzzle. Over time, even healthy teeth undergo years of wear and tear from chewing, exposure to acidic foods, and general use. As enamel becomes thinner, the risk of a break naturally increases. Still, a broken tooth is not the end of the road. With the right care, we can restore strength, function, and appearance.
How We Treat Broken Teeth at Atkins Dental Clinic
When you visit our office with broken teeth, the first thing Dr. Aaron will do is assess the full picture. We examine for signs of infection, evaluating the extent of the damage, and determine whether the nerve of the tooth is involved. Some breaks are minor surface chips, while others may run deeper or even expose the inner pulp. These details matter because they guide us toward the most effective and lasting treatment for your smile.
Dental Bonding or Tooth-Colored Fillings
If the break is small, such as a shallow chip or a minor crack, Dr. Aaron may recommend bonding or a tooth-colored filling to repair it. We apply a composite resin that matches the natural shade of your tooth and shape it to restore your bite and appearance. This is often a quick, conservative solution that works well for front teeth and small repairs.
Dental Veneers
If a front tooth is chipped or visibly worn but still structurally sound, a dental veneer may be the right option. Veneers are thin shells made of composite resin that we bond to the front of the tooth. Dr. Aaron recommends veneers when the goal is to improve appearance while also protecting the underlying enamel.
Dental Crowns
For larger fractures or teeth that have lost significant structure, a dental crown is often the most effective choice. A crown fits over the entire tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and function. Dr. Aaron uses crowns when the damage is too extensive for a filling, but the tooth can still be preserved.
If the break exposes the pulp or causes sensitivity and pain, Dr. Aaron may perform root canal therapy to treat the affected tooth. This procedure involves carefully clearing out the inflamed or infected pulp from inside the tooth. Once the inner chamber is fully cleaned and disinfected, we seal the space to protect it from future bacteria and restore stability. We typically place a dental crown afterward to strengthen and protect the tooth.
Tooth Extraction and Replacement
If the tooth is too damaged to repair, we may recommend an extraction. In that case, Dr. Aaron will review your tooth replacement options, including dental implants, to help restore both function and appearance. Our goal is to find the solution that fits your needs and supports your long-term oral health.
Don’t Ignore Broken Teeth: Let Us Help Restore Your Smile
Broken teeth can lead to more serious problems when left untreated, but the right solution starts with a thorough evaluation. At Atkins Dental Clinic, Dr. Aaron will examine your tooth, identify the cause of the damage, and recommend a treatment that restores both strength and comfort. If you’re experiencing a recent break, a visible chip, or lingering discomfort, contact our office to schedule an appointment.
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