Broken teeth

Our teeth are naturally strong but everyday life can still take its toll. Biting into something hard, an accidental fall, or an old filling giving way can all lead to a chipped or broken tooth.

At Guildford Dental Centre, we’re here to help restore your smile quickly, comfortably, and effectively.

Common Causes of Tooth Breaks

There are a few reasons a tooth might chip, crack or break:

• Biting down on hard foods
• Accidents or facial injuries
• Sports-related trauma
• Large, older fillings weakening the tooth
• Cavities that haven’t been treated in time
• Natural wear and tear over time

Even if there’s no pain right away, a broken tooth can lead to further damage or infection so it’s always best to have it checked out.

What to Do If You Break a Tooth

If you’ve chipped or fractured a tooth, here’s what you can do until we see you:

1. Rinse your mouth with warm water
2. Apply gauze or a damp teabag to any bleeding areas
3. Use an ice pack on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling
4. Avoid chewing on that side of the mouth and very hot, cold or sweet foods/drinks
5. Take over the counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed for pain
6. Cover sharp edges with temporary dental cement which is available at most pharmacies - This is only a short-term measure

How We Treat Broken or Chipped Teeth

Treatment depends on how much damage has occurred:

Minor Chips

For small chips, we may be able to smooth the edges and use a tooth-coloured filling or bonding material often in just one visit.

Moderate to Severe Breaks

Larger breaks may require more complex treatment. This could include:

• Tooth-coloured composite fillings
• Porcelain crowns to restore structure and appearance
• Inlays or onlays for a strong, natural-looking finish
• Root canal treatment, if the nerve is affected
• Tooth removal, if the damage is beyond repair

Don’t worry, we’ll walk you through your options and recommend the best approach for your needs.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Sometimes, cracks or breaks don’t cause pain right away but that doesn’t mean they’re not a problem. Even small fractures can let in bacteria, leading to tooth decay or infection if left untreated.

Routine check-ups can help catch problems early, but if you suspect damage to a tooth, don’t wait for your next visit.

At Guildford Dental Centre in Guildford, we use high-quality, tooth-coloured materials like resin composite and porcelain to restore both the strength and natural look of your smile.

If you’ve chipped or broken a tooth or simply want to ask a question, we’re here to help. Give us a call on 01483 535220 to speak with our friendly team.