A broken tooth doesn’t always cause pain. The level of discomfort from a broken tooth depends on the extent and location of the fracture. Minor chips or cracks that don't reach the nerve may not be painful, while more severe breaks that expose the nerve can be extremely painful. Broken teeth still require professional attention because breaching enamel can destabilize the tooth.
Other examples of instances when a broken tooth tends to be rather painful include:
- Severe fractures that expose the tooth’s inner nerve
- A cavity that’s allowed to fester to the point of tooth decay
- A broken tooth can create an opening for bacteria to enter, causing an abscess (infection) that results in throbbing pain and swelling.
In any case, regardless of pain, it's essential to seek dental care immediately upon discovering a broken tooth to prevent the risk of further damage or infection.
Of course, only a dentist or oral surgeon, after considering a patient’s oral and overall health, can definitively determine the best option.
Treating Broken Teeth in Sydney
If you’re in Sydney and want to ensure quality care in the event of a broken tooth or any other dental emergency, contact the Sydney Emergency Dentist team to arrange an appointment or consultation.