What to do about the pain?
To reattach a broken tooth, all fragments must be handed over to the dentist. However, bonding is only possible under certain circumstances. For example, if only a piece of the filling has broken off or if it is only a simple fracture of the tooth.
Dental pulp or root fibers must not be injured. In all other cases the broken-off part can only be preserved by a larger restoration. This includes the restoration by means of a filling, inlay or (partial) crown.
If adhesion is possible, the fragment is examined for a suitable fit, disturbing edges are smoothed if necessary and then reattached. This is done with a tooth-colored adhesive, similar to the plastic filling material. Afterwards, protrusions are removed and sharp edges are smoothed. After polishing, the fracture should no longer be visible. Loading can then be performed as usual.
What can be done to prevent caries?
Caries can develop on broken teeth as well as on all other teeth. The danger is even increased by the fact that food residues can more easily stick to rough edges of broken teeth or in cavities that have formed. Bacteria that cause this can remain in these areas for even longer.
Caries can occur more frequently here. It is important to make sure that the broken tooth is always kept clean. Especially after eating it is important to remove residues immediately.
A mouth shower is suitable for this. Proper oral hygiene – in the morning and in the evening – is also an advantage. If the fracture is located in an interdental space, regular use of dental floss or interdental brushes is recommended.
A fluoridation of the teeth and especially the endangered area(s) increases the stability and can thus contribute to less caries. A quick trip to the dentist saves avoidable carious spots on the tooth. The resulting cavities can be treated with fillings, and sharp edges can be smoothed so that fewer bacteria are present at the fracture sites.
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