A broken tooth is more than a cosmetic concern; it can spiral into a serious dental emergency if left untreated. Whether it’s a chipped tooth from an accidental fall or a fractured cusp caused by biting into something hard, the question arises: how long can a broken tooth go untreated before complications arise? In this guide, we’ll uncover the risks of leaving a broken or cracked tooth untreated and discuss the importance of prompt professional dental care.
What Happens When a Broken Tooth Goes Untreated?
A broken tooth varies in severity, from a minor chip in the tooth enamel to a vertical root fracture. While the damage may seem insignificant at first, leaving a cracked tooth untreated can result in:
- Tooth Pain and Sensitivity: Exposed nerves in the pulp chamber may cause sharp or throbbing pain, especially when subjected to cold temperatures or biting pressure.
- Tooth Decay: A damaged tooth with rough edges creates entry points for bacteria, leading to decay and infection.
- Tooth Infection: If bacteria penetrate the pulp chamber, it can cause infected tissue and a painful dental abscess, which may need root canal therapy or even tooth extraction.
- Damage to Surrounding Teeth: A cracked or broken tooth can exert uneven biting pressure, affecting the chewing surface and surrounding teeth.
- Tooth Loss: Severe cases of untreated fractures, such as a split tooth or vertical root fracture, may result in the tooth remaining beyond repair, necessitating removal.
How a Broken Tooth Affects Your Overall Health
A broken tooth isn’t just a localised dental issue—it can have a ripple effect on your overall health. Here’s how:
Increased Risk of Systemic Infections
When a broken tooth allows bacteria to infiltrate the pulp chamber or surrounding tissues, it can lead to systemic infections. Tooth infections left untreated have been associated with severe health conditions, including heart disease, respiratory illnesses, and complications related to diabetes. Bacteria from the infected tooth can enter the bloodstream, spreading to other areas of the body and creating serious health concerns.
Impact on Digestive Health
A damaged tooth can disrupt your chewing efficiency, leading to poorly chewed food entering your digestive system. This can result in indigestion and other gastrointestinal problems, as your stomach struggles to break down inadequately processed food particles.
Sleep and Mental Wellbeing
Chronic pain from a broken tooth or tooth infection can impact your quality of sleep and overall mental wellbeing. Persistent discomfort may lead to stress, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating on daily tasks.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Cracked Tooth
Even a small crack or chip can worsen under biting pressure, making prompt treatment crucial. Ignoring a fractured tooth increases the likelihood of further complications, such as bone loss in the lower jaw, gum line issues, or the need for more invasive dental procedures.
Signs Your Tooth Needs Immediate Attention
- Throbbing or severe pain
- Pressure sensitivity
- Rough edges causing discomfort
- Loose tooth or signs of mobility
- Visible fractures or chips
- Swelling or infection in the affected area
Smart Solutions for Fixing a Broken or Cracked Tooth
Prompt treatment not only relieves discomfort but also prevents significant consequences for your oral health. Let’s explore the most common treatment options.
Cosmetic Contouring or Tooth-Coloured Resin
For minor chips or cracks, cosmetic contouring or the application of a tooth-coloured resin can restore the tooth’s appearance and function. This thin layer of composite material smooths rough edges and prevents further damage.
Dental Crown
When the biting surface is compromised, a dental crown is often the most appropriate treatment. Crowns cover the damaged tooth, protecting it from further wear and stabilising the chewing surface.
Root Canal Treatment
If a cracked or broken tooth has caused infected pulp or damaged blood vessels, root canal therapy is necessary to save the tooth. This includes removing the infected tissue, cleaning the pulp chamber, and sealing the tooth to prevent future infections.
Dental Implants
In severe cases where the tooth is beyond repair, dental implants may be required to replace missing teeth. This involves fixing a titanium post into the jawbone, providing a durable and natural-looking solution.
Tooth Extraction
For vertical root fractures or severely damaged teeth, extraction may be the only viable option. The removal prevents further complications, such as infection spreading to other areas of the mouth.
The Risks of Delayed Treatment
Leaving cracked teeth untreated can lead to severe pain, tooth loss, and other complications. Here’s why immediate action is vital:
Dental Abscess
An untreated fractured tooth may result in an abscess—a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection. This condition can spread to surrounding tissues, requiring urgent medical attention.
Bone Loss and Gum Damage
A tooth left untreated may cause bone loss in the lower jaw or gum recession, compromising the stability of adjacent teeth.
Further Complications
Food particles can become trapped in the damaged tooth, exacerbating decay and infection. In severe cases, the entire affected area may need extensive reconstruction.
Steps to Take if You Have a Broken Tooth
If you’ve experienced a broken tooth, follow these steps while awaiting professional dental care:
- Rinse with Warm Water: Clean the affected area to remove food particles.
- Apply a Cold Compress: Reduce swelling and numb sharp pain with a cold compress.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Protect the damaged tooth by steering clear of foods that may worsen the crack.
- Use Dental Wax or Sugarless Gum: Temporarily cover sharp edges to prevent injury to your tongue or cheeks.
- Visit a Dentist Immediately: Prompt treatment from a dental office is crucial to prevent long-term damage.
How Long Can a Cracked Tooth Go Untreated?
The timeline for complications varies, but significant consequences can arise within weeks if a cracked or broken tooth goes untreated. Pain, infection, and structural damage worsen over time, making it essential to seek a treatment plan as soon as possible.
Prevention Tips: Protecting Your Teeth
To steer clear of unexpected dental emergencies, consider these preventive measures:
- Wear a Mouthguard: Protect teeth during sports or activities that risk impact.
- Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Refrain from biting ice, hard candies, or other objects that may fracture teeth.
- Maintain Regular Dental Visits: See your dentist regularly for check-ups to catch issues early.
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to maintain strong enamel and prevent decay.
The Cost of Delaying Treatment: Financial and Emotional Burdens
Ignoring a broken tooth may seem like an easy choice at the moment, but it often leads to more significant financial and emotional costs in the long run. Here’s what you need to know:
Escalating Treatment Costs
What starts as a minor repair, such as cosmetic contouring or a dental crown, can escalate into costly treatments like root canal therapy, dental implants, or tooth extractions if the problem is left untreated. Delayed intervention often results in more extensive and expensive procedures.
Emotional Toll
Living with tooth pain, sensitivity, or the appearance of a damaged tooth can affect your self-esteem and social confidence. Many individuals with untreated dental issues report feelings of embarrassment or anxiety about their smiles, which can impact personal and professional relationships.
Time Investment
Delaying treatment means that when you finally do seek help, you might require multiple appointments for restorative procedures. This can disrupt your schedule and add unnecessary stress to your life.
By addressing a broken tooth promptly, you not only save money but also protect your peace of mind and overall quality of life. Don’t let procrastination lead to regret—taking action early is always the better choice.
When to See a Dentist
If you feel pain, notice a chipped tooth, or experience signs of infection, don’t delay seeking medical attention. Prompt treatment can prevent further complications and ensure your oral health remains intact.
Final Thoughts on Treating a Broken Tooth
Leaving a cracked or broken tooth untreated can lead to serious consequences for your oral health, including tooth loss, severe pain, and infection. Whether it’s a small chip or a severe vertical root fracture, seeking professional dental care promptly ensures the best outcome. Remember, your dentist is equipped with the expertise and tools to provide appropriate treatment, from cosmetic contouring to root canal therapy.
If you suspect you have a damaged tooth, don’t wait for further complications. contact us today at (08) 7078 8263 for a consultation and personalised treatment plan.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
- WebMD. (n.d.). Mouth guards. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/mouth-guards
- Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Fractured tooth (cracked tooth). Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21628-fractured-tooth-cracked-tooth
- Colgate. (n.d.). Oral bacteria: What lives in your mouth?. Retrieved from https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-and-teeth-anatomy/oral-bacteria-what-lives-in-your-mouth