Your teeth is one of the strongest structures in the body, they do not break away easily. However, in spite of that they may still get damaged and break. It is more common than you think and can happen to any, incisors, canines or molars. If you have a half-broken molar tooth, schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately, leaving the issue hanging can rise to other oral issues.
What Causes a Molar Tooth To Break?
There are multiple reasons why a molar tooth can break into halves, some of which include:
- Improper fillings
- Biting something extremely hard like candy or ice exerting pressure
- Habit of ripping clothing
- Direct impact on the face
- Untreated cavities that break the molar tooth
- Grinding or clenching of teeth
- Trauma
Taking Care of a Half-Broken Molar Tooth
Set an appointment with your dentist immediately so that things do not get worse. Meanwhile, here are some self-care options for temporary pain relief:
- Start off with rinsing your mouth using salt water solution for lessening the risk of an infection in the broken molar tooth.
- Take painkillers available over the counter, such as acetaminophen for pain relief.
- Cover your tooth with a sugarless gum or wax for sharp edges of the half-broken molar tooth. This layer will work as a protection for your cheek and tongue from cuts and other bruises.
- Refrain from eating hard foods and make sure to chew from the other side of the mouth.
- In case of swelling, pain and redness, use a cold compress on it.
- If there is bleeding, grab a gauze and apply pressure with it on the half-broken tooth and surrounding area until it ceases.
- Steer clear from extremely hot or cold food or beverages.
Treatment Options to Deal with a Broken Tooth
Choice of treatment for the broken molar tooth in half depends on the severity of the damage. Some of the treatments used for addressing this issue are:
Dental Crown
If half or more part of the molar tooth is broken, then the dentist may cover it up with a crown- a tooth-shaped cap that protects the matter (your broken tooth) beneath it. They are made from materials like porcelain, porcelain fused with metal, ceramic, or the metal itself.
Each material has its own advantage and disadvantage; for example metal, it is the strongest but looks dingy, ruins a perfect smile. On the other hand, porcelain and resin crowns look exactly like a natural tooth, which is why most people opt for these two for dental restoration.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding
This works best where there is minimal damage. Composite resin easily repairs the broken tooth. In this process the surface is roughened using a gel or liquid so that the bonding material sticks to it easily. Then, an adhesive material is applied, following the tooth-colored resin. Next, the tooth is hardened using ultraviolet rays leaving a natural looking smile behind.
Root Canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is best for a tooth that is damaged enough to expose the pulp. The pulp is the central part which contains all the tooth nerves and vessels. Bacteria can easily reach the inner layer through the crack causing sensitivity and other oral complications.
Take Out
A half-broken molar or any other tooth is a dental emergency. Reach out to Pearland Family Dentistry for immediate assistance. For scheduling an appointment, call at 832 649 7344.