A broken tooth at the gum line can be a distressing experience. Because of the position of the break, a lot of people tend to wonder, “Can a tooth broken at gum line be saved?”
The great news is that advances in dental technology and techniques offer a variety of effective broken tooth treatments to restore your smile and oral health.
In this blog, we’ll explore the causes and treatment options for teeth broken at the gum line.
What Can Cause a Tooth to Break at the Gum Line?
Teeth are incredibly strong, but they’re not invincible. A tooth can break at the gum line due to:
- Severe Decay: Untreated cavities weaken the tooth structure, increasing the risk of fractures.
- Trauma or Injury: Accidents, falls, or sports injuries can lead to a broken tooth.
- Excessive Pressure: Grinding your teeth (bruxism) or biting down on hard objects can cause cracks.
- Failed Dental Work: Old fillings or crowns that no longer fit properly may compromise the tooth.
Understanding the cause helps your dentist determine the most appropriate treatment to save your tooth.
What Happens When Your Tooth Breaks at the Gum Line?
When a tooth breaks at the gum line, it often leaves behind a jagged edge and exposes the inner layers of your tooth, including the dentin or pulp. This type of fracture can cause immediate pain, sensitivity, and discomfort, especially when you are eating or drinking.
A broken tooth at the gum line disrupts the tooth’s structural integrity and exposes it to bacteria and other irritants. Over time, this can cause decay, infection, and further damage to surrounding teeth and tissues.
But Can a Broken Tooth at the Gum Line Be Saved?
Several factors help dentists determine the feasibility of restoring the tooth and guide the treatment plan.
Here are some of them:
Extent of the Break
Minor fractures may be easier to repair, while deep fractures extending into the root make restoration more challenging. Similarly, vertical fractures extending below the gumline can be more complex to treat than horizontal fractures.
Root Health
If the root is intact and undamaged, it increases the chances of saving the tooth. Adequate bone surrounding the root is also necessary to support restoration or stabilization procedures.
Infection or Decay
If the tooth or surrounding tissue is infected, treatment like root canal therapy is essential before restoration. Severe infections may limit treatment options. Teeth with significant decay at or below the gumline are typically harder to save.
Accessibility
Front teeth are generally easier to access and treat compared to molars, which are deeper in the mouth. If the fracture is entirely below the gumline, it can be difficult to access molars for repairs and restorations.
Remaining Tooth Structure
The amount of remaining tooth structure above the gumline (crown) versus below the gumline (root) affects stability and feasibility of restoration. A tooth with insufficient structure for bonding or crown placement may need additional support, such as a post and core.
How Can a Tooth Broken at Gum Line Be Saved?
Modern dentistry now offers several ways to treat a broken tooth at the gum line. Your dentist can provide tailored solutions based on your specific needs.
Some of the most common treatments to treat a broken tooth include:
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is one of the quickest and most cost-effective solutions for minor fractures. A tooth-colored resin is applied and shaped to restore the tooth’s appearance and function. It’s ideal for small chips or cracks above the gumline.
Dental Crown
A dental crown is a custom cap placed over the damaged tooth, providing strength and protection. Crowns are perfect for extensive damage and mimic the look of natural teeth.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy treats teeth with fractures that expose the pulp, preventing infection and preserving the tooth. The procedure removes damaged tissue and seals the tooth. It’s often followed by a crown for added support.
Post and Core Restoration
Post and core restoration is used for severely broken teeth with limited remaining structure. A post is placed in the root canal to provide stability, and a core is built to support a crown.
Tooth Extraction and Replacement
When a tooth is beyond saving, extraction removes the damaged tooth to prevent further complications. Replacement options like dentures, dental implants, or bridges restore function and aesthetics. These solutions ensure a healthy and complete smile.
Complications of Leaving a Broken Tooth Untreated
Ignoring a tooth broken at the gum line can lead to a range of dental and overall health issues.
When left untreated, a broken tooth can lead to the following issues:
- Increased Pain and Sensitivity: A broken tooth often leaves the inner layers exposed, making the tooth highly sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. Over time, this pain can worsen without treatment.
- Infection: Exposed pulp tissue provides a pathway for bacteria to enter the tooth, leading to infections or abscesses. Left untreated, these infections can spread to other parts of the body, causing serious health risks.
- Decay of Surrounding Teeth: A broken tooth creates an ideal environment for plaque buildup, which can spread decay to neighboring teeth.
- Tooth Loss: If the fracture extends below the gumline and into the root, the tooth may become unsalvageable, leading to tooth loss.
Conclusion
A broken tooth at the gum line is more than a cosmetic concern—it’s a potential gateway to significant oral and overall health problems. Prompt treatment not only alleviates discomfort but also prevents complications that could require more extensive and costly dental procedures in the future.
If you have a broken tooth at the gumline, contact a dentist immediately to evaluate the damage and discuss treatment options to restore your smile and health.
Your Smile Deserves the Best Care
Don’t wait—schedule a consultation with Abadin Dental today, and let us help you smile again!
Call us now at (305) 783-3750 or book your appointment online!
FAQ
What happens if you leave a broken tooth in the gums?
Leaving a broken tooth untreated can lead to infections, pain, decay, and even tooth loss. Over time, it can also affect surrounding teeth and gum health.
What is the cheapest way to fix a broken tooth?
Dental bonding is often the most affordable option for repairing minor fractures. It’s quick, effective, and restores the tooth’s appearance and function.
Can I fix my broken tooth without going to the dentist?
No, you cannot. Professional treatment is necessary to properly repair and protect a broken tooth. DIY fixes can worsen the issue or cause further damage.
