Tooth fractures occur when a tooth breaks, cracks, or chips due to injury or pressure. These fractures can range from small, harmless chips to deeper cracks that expose the inner layers of the tooth, leading to pain or infection. Tooth fractures are common in active children, especially those involved in sports or other physical activities.
Symptoms
The signs of a tooth fracture can vary depending on its severity:
• Chipped or cracked tooth: A visible break in the tooth structure.
• Pain or sensitivity: Discomfort when biting or chewing, or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Swollen gums: Redness or swelling near the affected tooth.
• Sharp edges: The fractured tooth may feel rough or jagged.
• Discoloration: A gray or dark appearance of the tooth might indicate deeper damage.
• Chipped or cracked tooth: A visible break in the tooth structure.
• Pain or sensitivity: Discomfort when biting or chewing, or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Swollen gums: Redness or swelling near the affected tooth.
• Sharp edges: The fractured tooth may feel rough or jagged.
• Discoloration: A gray or dark appearance of the tooth might indicate deeper damage.
Causes
Tooth fractures in children may result from:
• Injuries: Falls, sports accidents, or impacts to the face.
• Chewing hard objects: Biting down on hard candy, ice, or other tough foods.
• Weak enamel: Decayed or worn-down teeth are more prone to breaking.
• Grinding or clenching: Habitual grinding (bruxism) can weaken teeth over time.
• Injuries: Falls, sports accidents, or impacts to the face.
• Chewing hard objects: Biting down on hard candy, ice, or other tough foods.
• Weak enamel: Decayed or worn-down teeth are more prone to breaking.
• Grinding or clenching: Habitual grinding (bruxism) can weaken teeth over time.
Diagnosis
If you suspect a tooth fracture, visit our dental team at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital. We’ll:
• Conduct a visual inspection of the tooth and surrounding gums.
• Use X-rays to determine the extent of the fracture and check for underlying damage.
• Assess your child’s symptoms and dental history to guide treatment.
• Conduct a visual inspection of the tooth and surrounding gums.
• Use X-rays to determine the extent of the fracture and check for underlying damage.
• Assess your child’s symptoms and dental history to guide treatment.
Treatment Options
The treatment for a tooth fracture depends on its location, size, and severity:
• Small chips: May require smoothing or bonding with a tooth-colored resin for aesthetic purposes.
• Moderate fractures: Fillings or crowns can restore the tooth’s shape and function.
• Deep cracks: Root canal treatment might be necessary if the fracture reaches the pulp (the tooth’s inner layer).
• Severe breaks: In cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be needed, followed by options like spacers or dental implants to maintain alignment.
• Pain relief: Temporary measures, such as painkillers and dental sealants, can reduce discomfort before definitive treatment.
• Small chips: May require smoothing or bonding with a tooth-colored resin for aesthetic purposes.
• Moderate fractures: Fillings or crowns can restore the tooth’s shape and function.
• Deep cracks: Root canal treatment might be necessary if the fracture reaches the pulp (the tooth’s inner layer).
• Severe breaks: In cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be needed, followed by options like spacers or dental implants to maintain alignment.
• Pain relief: Temporary measures, such as painkillers and dental sealants, can reduce discomfort before definitive treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can baby teeth fractures affect permanent teeth?
A: Yes, severe trauma to baby teeth can sometimes damage developing permanent teeth. It’s important to seek prompt dental care.
Q: How can I prevent tooth fractures in my child?
A: Use protective gear like mouthguards during sports, encourage healthy eating habits, and discourage chewing hard objects.
Q: Is a fractured tooth an emergency?
A: It depends on the severity. If your child is in pain, has swelling, or the tooth is deeply cracked, seek immediate care.
Contact
Please feel free to contact us with any general or medical enquiry by calling us.