#76: Split Tooth- what to do?

When Your Tooth Unexpectedly Splits – What to Do?

Hello, and welcome back to The Wonder Tooth! I'm Dr. Radwa Saad, your guide to everything dental health. Today, we're diving into a situation that can be shocking and painful—when your tooth unexpectedly splits. What causes this to happen, and more importantly, what should you do? Stay with me as we break it all down!

1. Why Do Teeth Split?

Common Causes of a Split Tooth:

1.    Large Cavities & Decay – Weakened tooth structure from untreated cavities can lead to fractures.

2.    Old Fillings & Dental Work – Over time, large fillings or crowns may cause a tooth to crack under pressure.

3.    Biting on Hard Foods – Chewing on ice, hard candy, or unpopped popcorn kernels can be the culprit.

4.    Trauma & Accidents – A fall, sports injury, or sudden impact can result in a tooth splitting.

5.    Bruxism (Teeth Grinding) – Chronic grinding puts excessive stress on teeth, making them prone to fractures.

6.    Temperature Extremes – Eating something very hot followed by something cold can cause teeth to expand and contract, leading to cracks.

2. What to Do If Your Tooth Splits?

Immediate Steps to Take:

• Stay Calm – Panicking won’t help. Take a deep breath and assess the situation.
• Rinse with Warm Salt Water – This helps clean the area and reduce bacteria.
• Control Pain & Swelling – Take an over-the-counter pain reliever and use a cold compress on your cheek.
• Avoid Eating on That Side – Stick to soft foods and avoid anything hard or sticky.
• Save Any Tooth Fragments – If a piece breaks off, place it in milk or saliva and bring it to your dentist.

3. Treatment Options for a Split Tooth

🔹 If the Crack is Minor (Craze Lines or Small Chips):

• Dental Bonding – A tooth-colored resin is applied to fill the crack.
• Veneers – Thin porcelain shells cover the front of the tooth for both protection and aesthetics.

🔹 If the Tooth Has a Moderate Fracture:

• Dental Crown – If the tooth is still structurally sound, a crown can cover and protect it.
• Root Canal – If the crack extends into the pulp, a root canal may be needed before placing a crown.

🔹 If the Tooth is Severely Split or Broken in Half:

• Extraction & Dental Implant – If the tooth is beyond repair, removal followed by an implant is the best long-term solution.
• Bridge or Partial Denture – Alternative options for replacing the missing tooth.

4. How to Prevent a Tooth from Splitting?

Proactive Tips:

• Routine Dental Visits – Regular checkups catch small cracks before they worsen.
• Wear a Night Guard – If you grind your teeth, a custom night guard can prevent fractures.
• Be Mindful of Hard Foods – Avoid chewing ice or hard candies.
• Replace Old Fillings & Crowns on Time – Don’t wait for them to weaken and crack.
• Wear a Mouthguard for Sports – Protect your teeth during high-impact activities.

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