What Happens When You Break a Tooth?

Posted on 7/1/2025 by San Tan Oral Surgery

Close-up of a woman's smile with a visible chipped front tooth, highlighting cosmetic dental issues.

Breaking a tooth can be a painful and frightening experience. It’s important to stay calm and seek professional help as soon as possible. But what happens next? What are the different treatment options available?

This article will guide you through the steps involved in repairing a broken tooth, from diagnosis to treatment. We will also discuss the importance of proper oral care and how Reforestation Dentistry can help protect your smile.

Initial Assessment

The first step is to assess the damage. Your dentist will examine your tooth and take X-rays to determine the extent of the fracture. They will also ask you about your symptoms, such as pain, sensitivity, and difficulty chewing.

Based on the assessment, your dentist will recommend the most appropriate treatment option.

Treatment Options

The treatment for a broken tooth will vary depending on the severity of the fracture. Here are some of the most common options:

•	Bonding: If the fracture is small and does not involve the pulp (the inner part of the tooth), your dentist may be able to repair it with composite bonding. This involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the broken tooth and hardening it with a special light.
•	Crown: If the fracture is larger or involves the pulp, a crown may be necessary. A crown is a cap that fits over the entire tooth, protecting it and restoring its function.
•	Root Canal: If the fracture has damaged the pulp, a root canal may be required. This involves removing the damaged pulp and filling the root canals with a special material. A crown will then be placed over the tooth.
•	Extraction: In some cases, the tooth may be so badly damaged that it needs to be extracted. This is usually a last resort, but it may be necessary to prevent further complications.

Importance of Oral Care

The best way to prevent a broken tooth is to practice good oral care. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Eating a healthy diet and avoiding sugary drinks can also help to protect your teeth.

Reforestation Dentistry

Reforestation Dentistry is a relatively new concept that focuses on using sustainable practices to protect the environment. This includes using eco-friendly materials and reducing waste.

By choosing a dentist who practices Reforestation Dentistry, you can help to protect the planet while taking care of your oral health.

Conclusion

Breaking a tooth can be a stressful experience, but there are many effective treatment options available. By following the advice of your dentist and practicing good oral care, you can restore your smile and prevent future problems.

About
Dr. Cynthia Colson

Dr. Colson grew up in the Metro area, attending Camelback High School and ASU. She graduated from the University of Kentucky Dental School and completed her residency at Long Island Jewish Hospital in Long Island, New York. She also attended an anesthesia fellowship program at the University of Illinois at Chicago and has traveled with Healing The Children, a non-profit organization, to Bucarumanga Columbia treating patients with cleft lip and palate deformities.
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What our patients are saying about us

"Dr. Colson is amazing! She explained everything thoroughly without sounding condescending and gently but directly guides you through the whole procedure. She is excellent and super experienced. I got my wisdom teeth pulled (3 partially impacted and one simply extracted) and aside from asking too many questions under laughing gas before the general anesthesia knocked me out, I got no complications and have had essentially no pain at all." – Ana D.

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Office hours

Mon - Thur: 8am to 5:00pm
Friday: 8am to 2:00pm

Location

3303 S. Lindsay Rd.
Suite 112
Gilbert, AZ 85297

Contact

Office: (480) 604-2592

Connect

Santanxray@gmail.com

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San Tan Oral Surgery, 3303 S. Lindsay Rd. Suite 112, Gilbert, AZ 85297-2100 | (480) 604-2592 | santanoralsurgery.com | 12/4/2025 | Related Terms: Dental Implants Gilbert AZ |