What should I do if my front tooth is broken?

Nov 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
Applicable for initial management after a front tooth fracture. Patients should avoid consuming spicy or hard foods, such as chili peppers and bones, to prevent irritation of the gum tissue and subsequent pain. A fractured front tooth may cause significant pain and discomfort. Patients may take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, indomethacin tablets, or celecoxib capsules, as directed by a physician to relieve pain symptoms.

Generally, a broken front tooth can be treated with routine care, medication, resin filling, root canal treatment, or dental veneer restoration. The specific treatment options are as follows:

1. Routine Care: This applies to the initial management of a broken front tooth. Patients should avoid consuming spicy or hard foods such as chili peppers and bones to prevent irritation of the gum tissue and subsequent pain. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing teeth promptly and regularly is important to prevent food debris from accumulating in the damaged area, which could lead to bad breath, gingivitis, or periodontitis.

2. Medication: A broken front tooth may cause significant pain and discomfort. Patients may take anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, indomethacin tablets, or celecoxib capsules as directed by a physician to alleviate pain symptoms.

3. Resin Filling: This treatment is suitable for minor fractures of the front tooth that have not affected the dental nerve. A tooth-colored resin material is used to fill the defective area and restore the tooth's shape and function. Resin fillings typically last about five years, but the material may wear down or discolor over time, requiring periodic examination and maintenance.

4. Root Canal Treatment: This option is appropriate when the front tooth becomes significantly loose after the fracture or when normal chewing function is affected. Root canal treatment involves removing dead tissue, disinfecting and filling the root canal, and promoting wound healing. After root canal treatment, a post-core crown restoration is usually required to restore the tooth's shape and function.

5. Dental Veneer Restoration: This treatment is suitable for patients who wish to improve the aesthetics of their teeth. Dental veneers are bonded to the tooth surface using adhesive agents to restore the tooth's appearance. Dental veneers offer a natural color and high hardness, but they may increase tooth sensitivity; therefore, thermal stimulation (hot or cold) should be avoided in daily life.

When a front tooth is fractured, it is important to promptly visit the dental department of a hospital for comprehensive examination and evaluation to determine the most suitable treatment plan.

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