A broken tooth can happen when you least expect it. To prevent the problem from worsening, it is best to see a dentist as soon as possible for treatment. Restoring or replacing a broken tooth stabilizes the bite, safeguards surrounding tissues, and supports long-term comfort.
Reasons to replace a broken tooth
Possible options for treating a broken tooth include a dental filling, a dental crown, or root canal therapy. If the tooth sustains damage beyond repair, a general dentist can pull the tooth and replace it with a dental bridge or implant. With each approach, the main goal is to restore the smile’s natural appearance and bite force. Here are five reasons not to put off broken tooth treatment:
1. Prevent infection to protect overall health
A broken tooth creates pathways for bacteria to reach the root and underlying jawbone. This can lead to infection, resulting in pain, swelling, and the need for urgent attention. Replacing the damaged tooth or restoring it seals potential entry points and interrupts the cycle of reinfection. A general dentist can evaluate the fracture pattern and recommend the most predictable route to a clean, sealed, and healthy outcome.
2. Preserve bite alignment and jaw function
Each tooth plays a vital role in evenly distributing chewing forces across the mouth. When one tooth becomes damaged, the surrounding teeth start to shift into the open space. These changes can strain the jaw joints and affect how the bite fits together. A prompt replacement helps preserve natural contact points and ensures chewing stays smooth and comfortable.
3. Stop other teeth from cracking
A broken tooth changes how the teeth distribute bite pressure along the smile. Nearby teeth may begin to withstand more pressure than they are able to, increasing the risk of microfractures. This is especially the case around older fillings or thinner enamel areas. Treating the broken tooth helps restore a balanced bite, as well as reduces the chance of further damage. This protective step reduces the need for future repairs and preserves the rest of the smile.
4. Make chewing easy and comfortable
When a tooth is severely damaged, chewing habits tend to shift to the stronger side of the mouth. Over time, this can limit food choices and make meals less enjoyable. Addressing the damaged tooth restores the ability to chew on both sides. It also makes it easier to handle tough or fibrous foods, like vegetables, grains, and meats. Thus, balanced chewing promotes better digestion and allows patients to enjoy a greater variety of foods.
5. Support the appearance of the smile
A broken tooth in the front of the smile can affect how the smile looks. In turn, patients may feel less confident speaking, smiling, or taking photos. Fixing a broken tooth helps recreate the natural shape and shine of a healthy smile, allowing attention to return to facial expressions rather than dental imperfections. For many, restoring a broken tooth becomes a daily source of renewed confidence and comfort.
See a general dentist about a broken tooth
Breaking a tooth can feel stressful, especially when you are unfamiliar with how a dentist may fix it. Our team at New York DMD is here to help. We prioritize patient comfort, whether the tooth needs to be repaired or replaced. Fix your broken tooth and find peace of mind with the help of our New York team.
Request an appointment here: https://newyorkdmd.com or call New York DMD at (917) 284-9680 for an appointment in our New York office.
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