What should I do if my tooth is broken in half?

Aug 01, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, if a tooth is broken in half, emergency measures such as immediate cleaning and hemostasis, dental restoration, root canal treatment, crown restoration, or replacement therapy may be performed. It is important not to delay seeking treatment after a tooth fracture, especially if the pulp is exposed or if there is severe pain or discomfort during biting. A dental visit within 24 hours is recommended to avoid pulp infection and necrosis or root resorption.

Generally, if a tooth is broken in half, the following measures can be taken: emergency cleaning and hemostasis, dental filling restoration, root canal treatment, crown restoration, or replacement therapy. The details are as follows:

1. Emergency Cleaning and Hemostasis

After a tooth fracture, rinse the mouth immediately with clean water or saline to remove food debris and blood from the fracture site. If there is slight bleeding, bite down on a clean cotton ball for 10–15 minutes to stop the bleeding. Avoid licking the broken edge with the tongue or touching it with hands to prevent infection or further damage. This step applies to all types of tooth fractures and helps buy time for subsequent treatment.

2. Dental Filling Restoration

If the fracture only involves enamel or dentin without exposing the pink pulp, composite resin filling can be used for restoration. The dentist will polish the fractured edge and then fill the defect with a tooth-colored composite resin to restore the tooth's shape and function. This procedure is simple and can usually be completed in one visit, suitable for cases with small fracture areas.

3. Root Canal Treatment

If the fracture exposes the pulp, showing a visible red spot or causing severe pain, root canal treatment is required first. The infected pulp tissue will be removed, the root canal disinfected and then filled and sealed to prevent bacterial invasion and apical periodontitis. After root canal treatment, the tooth becomes brittle and requires further restoration for protection.

4. Crown Restoration

When the tooth has undergone root canal treatment or the remaining tooth structure is weak, crown restoration is necessary. The dentist will remove some of the remaining tooth structure, take an impression, and fabricate a porcelain-fused-to-metal or all-ceramic crown to cover the remaining tooth. This enhances tooth strength, restores chewing function, and prevents further fracture.

5. Replacement Therapy

If the fracture extends to the tooth root or X-rays show vertical root fracture or root resorption making the tooth non-restorable, the residual root should be extracted. After the alveolar bone heals, dental implants, fixed bridges, or removable dentures can be considered to restore dental function and aesthetics.

Do not delay seeking dental care after a tooth fracture, especially when the pulp is exposed or accompanied by severe pain or discomfort during biting. Visit a dentist within 24 hours to avoid pulp necrosis or root resorption.

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