Broken Molar Cutting Tongue? All Answers

If you are looking for a pediatric orthodontist in Omaha, we at Pedodontics, P.C. strive to be your first choice. With our wide range of braces and other orthodontic treatments, we are qualified and able to give each of our patients the smile they deserve. Our goal is to provide excellence in both dental and orthodontic care. We want to help you break your harmful oral habits. One such example is tongue clenching, for which we are happy to offer a solution.

What is tongue thrusting?

Tongue thrust is the habit of pushing your tongue forward between your upper and lower teeth when swallowing. The correct position for the tongue is with the tip pressing against the gums over the back of your upper front teeth.

Why is tongue thrust bad?

The tongue is a very strong muscle – one strong enough to push teeth out of their natural position. This bad swallowing habit becomes even more apparent when you consider that the average person swallows around 2,000 times a day! Over time, tongue thrusting can lead to an open bite. In this case, only the back teeth come together when biting – the front teeth don’t really touch. As your trusted orthodontist in Omaha, NE, we recommend getting this issue treated as soon as possible.

Our tongue thrust exercise

To fix this bad habit, we recommend the following exercise:

First, place a small orthodontic elastic on the tip of your tongue.

Press the tip of your tongue against the gums on the roof of your mouth, just behind your upper front teeth.

Clench your teeth in your normal bite; don’t bite forward.

Keep your lips apart.

Swallow. Be careful not to let your lips close or your teeth to fall apart. Also, please don’t panic if you accidentally swallow a rubber band – it will pass through your system with no problem.

Since you’re pushing your tongue forward as you swallow, this exercise can be a bit difficult at first. However, with enough practice, it’s really not as difficult as it might seem. We recommend taking two sets of 30 sips daily, preferably once in the morning and again in the evening. While it takes some effort to succeed, if you can stop your tongue clenching, your braces can come off sooner and your teeth stay in perfect alignment.

Contact your orthodontist in Omaha, NE today!

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. At Pedodontics, P.C. will be happy to help you with all your concerns. If you are interested in making an appointment with us for braces or any of our other orthodontic treatments for children, we encourage you to call us at (402) 330-5913. We look forward to hearing from you and helping your child keep their teeth as straight and healthy as possible!

Wisdom teeth are a nuisance to some and a complete mystery to others. When it comes to wisdom teeth removal there are some very common and obvious signs to look out for such as: B. Toothache or swollen red gums. However, there are several other potential problems that could be causing your wisdom teeth that you may not even be aware of! Here are 5 other problems caused by wisdom teeth complications.

1. Stiffness and pain in the jaw

Does your jaw feel stiff or painful when you open your mouth wide to take a bite or chew certain foods? This could be caused by an impacted wisdom tooth sticking to your bone, putting extra pressure on your jaw. The end result is the pain, stiffness, and discomfort you experience.

2. Headache

Headaches are a common symptom of many dental problems. Just as impacted wisdom teeth put pressure on your jaw, it can also migrate to your head. The pain usually occurs on one side of your head, the side of the wisdom tooth that’s causing the problem. You may also experience jaw pain and some discomfort in the neck.

3. Sticking your tongue or cheek

A wisdom tooth that grows at an angle can sometimes be positioned to poke your tongue or cheek. This can be painful and cause a sore in your tongue or cheek. When you eat or talk, the sore can become irritated, become inflamed, and eventually swell. We recommend having the wisdom teeth removed as soon as possible to prevent further complications or infection.

4. Gum disease or infection

Sometimes impacted wisdom teeth come partially through the surface and then stop. When this happens, deep pockets form in your gums and food debris begins to accumulate in these pockets. Regular brushing is usually not enough to remove it with regular brushing and flossing, leaving the particles in the pockets and eventually rotting and becoming infectious.

Over time, it can cause your gums to separate from your teeth, leading to periodontal gum disease. Even if you practice good oral hygiene, you can still be susceptible to gum disease from an impacted wisdom tooth.

5. Movement or pain of surrounding teeth

When wisdom teeth grow in at an angle, it can lead to crowding with the surrounding teeth. Overfilling can cause the neighboring teeth to shift. When teeth start to shift, it can be painful. In most cases, the pain will come from the actual change of teeth and not from the wisdom tooth, which can be a bit deceiving. You may also have pain in your jaw.

Remember that pain and discomfort in your teeth or gums is not normal, especially when it comes back. If you have any of the issues described above, contact us today to schedule an investigation. After examining your teeth, we can determine whether or not your wisdom teeth need to be removed.

While a loose tooth is common in children, it can also be a cause for concern in adults. Anything from poor oral hygiene, advanced gum disease, grinding your teeth, chewing hard food, or an injury in your mouth can damage your tooth and loosen it. While it is always preferable to save a tooth, removing a cracked, infected, or diseased tooth will help protect your other teeth. Visit your dentist if your loose tooth is causing you severe pain and needs to be extracted right away.

Here are a few tips to help you pull your loose tooth pain-free.

1. Keep wiggling

Use your clean hands or tongue to move the tooth back and forth, as this will help loosen it and allow it to fall out on its own.

2. Brush and floss vigorously

Strenuous brushing and flossing will help remove a loose tooth without pain. Brushing in an up-and-down motion rubbing each side of the loose tooth will cause it to fall out. If you curve the floss around the bottom of the loose tooth, it will fall out as well.

3. Wet washcloth/gauze

Use a cold, wet washcloth or medical gauze to grab and remove a loose tooth. If you find that the tooth is not loose enough to come out without pain, wiggle it slightly while holding it with gauze or a damp cloth. This will help the loose tooth come out quickly and stop the bleeding, if any.

4. Twist and pull gently

If you find that your tooth is still hanging despite the wiggling, give it a gentle but firm twist and then pull it out. Make sure you use clean fingers or gauze to twist and pull the tooth.

5. Visit your dentist

If your loose tooth doesn’t come out easily and is causing problems like severe pain or discomfort, see your dentist to have it removed.

Pulling a loose tooth before it’s ready to come out on its own can fracture the root, leaving the gap vulnerable to infection and plaque build-up. However, if your tooth is loose enough to pull it out, follow the tips above.

If you’re experiencing swelling, pain, or excessive bleeding from a loose tooth, or are having trouble pulling it out yourself, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Related article:

Dental hygiene: what to expect at your appointments

What should I do if my permanent tooth is loose?

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What are mouth ulcers?

Ulcers are painful sores that appear in the mouth. They are usually red or yellow. They are different from cold sores, which appear on the outer lips and are caused by a virus.

What are the most common causes of mouth ulcers?

Usually, a single mouth ulcer is due to damage caused by biting the cheek or tongue, or by sharp teeth, brushing, or ill-fitting dentures. These ulcers are called “traumatic” ulcers. If you have multiple mouth ulcers and they keep coming back, it’s called ‘recurrent aphthous stomatitis’.

How do I know if I have a traumatic ulcer?

Traumatic ulcers are usually self-contained, occurring alongside the cause of the damage and disappearing once the cause of the problem is eliminated.

What are the signs of recurrent aphthous stomatitis?

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis is a common problem and is the recurrence of mouth ulcers in otherwise healthy children and adolescents. The cause is not known, but it is not contagious and is not likely to be inherited.

Are there different types of recurrent mouth ulcers?

Yes.

Minor ulcers are the most common. They can appear on the cheeks, lips, tongue and gums, and less commonly on the roof of the mouth. Most of these boils are the size of the tip of a pencil and can sometimes appear in clusters. You can get four to six at any time.

Large ulcers are more serious and may take longer to heal. Any ulcer that lasts longer than 3 weeks should be evaluated by your dentist. Large ulcers can appear near the tonsils and can be very painful, especially when swallowing. You usually only get one at a time.

There can also be up to 100 very small, painful sores that last a week or two. However, these last two varieties are very rare.

You can get ulcers in other parts of your body, such as B. in the eyes or in the genital area. It is important that you let your dental team know about this.

What are the rarer causes of mouth ulcers?

Infections can cause mouth ulcers. Herpes simplex commonly causes mouth ulcers in children and some adults. Other less common viral and bacterial infections can cause mouth ulcers, but this is rare. Mouth ulcers can be caused by anemia and occasionally by other blood disorders and some skin or gastrointestinal disorders. Sometimes the mouth ulcers are the only sign of an underlying condition.

Can Cancer Cause Mouth Ulcers?

Oral cancer can initially appear as a mouth ulcer. The ulcers caused by oral cancer are usually solitary and long-lasting without an obvious nearby cause (such as a sharp tooth). Any ulcer that lasts longer than three weeks should be evaluated by your dentist. Ulcers caused by cancer usually appear on or under the tongue, but can occasionally appear elsewhere in the mouth. Oral cancer is usually associated with heavy smoking and alcohol consumption. Both together increase the risk considerably.

Can I get mouth ulcers?

Mouth ulcers cannot be spread through kissing or sharing drinks and utensils.

What types of treatment are there for mouth ulcers?

Treatment depends on the cause of the ulcers. Sometimes just a sharp tooth needs straightening or a denture fitting, although some patients need mouthwashes or pills.

What should I do if I think I have mouth ulcers?

If an ulcer lasts longer than 3 weeks, you should always consult your dental team or doctor for advice. They may be able to tell you the cause and offer treatment, or they can arrange further testing or refer you to a specialist if needed.

How can I prevent mouth ulcers?

You may be able to reduce the risk of mouth ulcers by:

We all love the life hacks and fun advice shared on TikTok, but dentists are warning of an alarming new trend of users filing their own teeth at home with nail files or other household items.

Several videos show users grinding down uneven teeth, which dentists say should never be done at home, let alone with household items.

“You could file your nails and they’ll grow back, but teeth don’t grow back,” said Dr. Tricia Quartey-Sagaille, a New York City-based dentist. “It’s very important that people recognize that and know that sometimes there’s another reason why your teeth are different lengths, so maybe it’s not as simple as maybe your teeth are in different positions.”

TikTok has taken some action to warn of potential dental misinformation. Some videos, such as B. one by user @MiaDio, contain a warning below stating that the video shows “potentially dangerous actions”.

In the video, the user says she’s trying to file her teeth with a nail file because they’re “not perfect” and “have some ridges,” but she doesn’t have the money to get them professionally examined. While calling the finished results “significantly better,” Quartey-Sagaille told TODAY that the user’s actions could make things more difficult later in life.

“People see the instant ‘Wow, it looks better,’ but once (enamel) is gone, it’s gone forever,” Quartey-Sagaille said. “They can do really irreversible damage and have long-term health effects. There is a lot of irreversible damage that can be done.”

Some of this damage includes increased sensitivity, permanent damage, an increase in tooth decay, and other pain.

“Don’t do anything at home that your dentist hasn’t told you to do,” Quartey-Sagaille advised. “The teeth are very strong, but you can certainly do a lot of things to weaken them. I’d say if it’s not something you routinely see over the counter, don’t do it.”

Social media savvy dentists are using various platforms to combat misinformation about tooth filing and dental care in general.

dr Suhail Mohiuddin, known on TikTok as @dr.m_ and who runs a dental practice in Illinois, shared a video directly responding to claims that you can file your teeth at home.

“As a dentist, when a patient asks me to do this, the first thing I think is, ‘Why are their teeth uneven in the first place?'” Mohiuddin said. “In this case, it’s because the bottom teeth are crowded and the top teeth are wearing unevenly. Okay, you’re filing them and they look pretty good, but you haven’t solved the original problem, so what are you going to do? a few years when they’re uneven again and now your teeth are shorter?”

In another video, he explained that the “bumpy ridges” some users mentioned are called mamelons and are perfectly normal, but can be professionally removed if desired. In a third video, he explained the steps a dentist takes before filing teeth, including measuring the thickness of tooth enamel, assessing the bite, and polishing the filed teeth with a flexible disc tool.

Arkansas-based orthodontist Dr. Ben Winters shared a video on Instagram in which he responded to another user’s submission, reiterating that while dentists and orthodontists can safely perform the procedure, it can cause serious harm if performed at home.

“It’s all bad news, bad juju!” he said. “You have to leave that to an expert because we know exactly how much enamel we can remove to be healthy for our teeth and still look good.”

Quartey-Sagaille said any dental procedures or changes you wish to make should be carefully considered with your dentist’s input.

“I think ideally what I’d like to see is someone finding a dental home that they feel comfortable enough in to tell (the dentist) what they want to do, because sometimes we hear about things after they’re done.” although of course it’s too late,” she said. “We will give our honest opinion on this and explain – and enlighten.”

Non-Urgent Advice: See a dentist if you or your child:

chipped, fractured or chipped tooth

If a piece of tooth is broken off, soak it in milk or saliva (by spitting into a container if it’s your tooth, or have your child spit into a container if it’s theirs) and take it to a dentist . The dentist can possibly glue the piece of tooth back on.

Don’t go to a family doctor. They cannot provide you with dental treatment.

Our teeth are the strongest part of our body, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t susceptible to damage. We demand a lot from our teeth. After all, we only get one set of adult teeth, and they have to last us for a very long time. Therefore, it is not surprising that sometimes a tooth can be chipped or chipped, and this can happen for a number of reasons. Maybe you like biting candy or chewing ice cream. Perhaps you tripped over a toy on the floor and fell. If you play contact sports or tend to grind or clench your teeth, you’re definitely playing with fire, at least when it comes to your mouth. Any of these activities can result in a chipped or fractured tooth. So what do you do when it happens to you?

Is a chipped tooth a dental emergency?

There is no general answer to this question, as it depends on the situation. If your tooth is severely chipped, cracked, or fractured and is causing you severe pain, consider this an emergency and call your dentist right away. Most of the time, however, a broken tooth is not an urgent dental matter. You can usually treat the problem at home until your dentist is open for regular office hours. But don’t postpone an appointment too long. Still, it’s important that you see a dentist as soon as possible for treatment. At first glance, a small chip might seem like just a cosmetic issue. However, there can be more damage than you can judge just by looking or feeling. The tooth may have suffered cracks or other injuries that are not visible to the naked eye. If you put off visiting the dentist for too long, you risk infection and permanent damage to the tooth later.

What can you do at home to protect a chipped tooth?

There are several things you can do at home to protect your tooth until you can go to the dentist. A chipped tooth can have sharp edges that can irritate or even cut open the inside of your mouth or tongue. You can mitigate this in two ways. First, your local pharmacy may stock a dental care kit that contains paraffin or tooth wax. You warm the paraffin in your hands and place it on the jagged edge of the tooth to keep it out of your mouth. If you don’t have access to it, another quick fix is ​​to use sugar-free gum! Simply shape it around the tooth to provide a buffer around rough edges. As already mentioned, if the pain is severe, do not wait and call your dentist immediately. But if the pain is mild, taking over-the-counter pain relievers may help until your local dental office is open.

There are also some things you should never do at home if you chip a tooth. Never try to file down a broken tooth. This can easily compromise tooth enamel and the underlying dentin, both of which are important parts of your oral health. See a dentist who knows how to properly fix a tooth and leave these most important substances intact.

How do dentists fix a chipped tooth?

Fixing a chipped tooth is something your dentist will do fairly frequently, and what they do will depend on how damaged the tooth is. To help assess the damage, your dentist may take X-rays to see how badly the tooth is affected. This will help them find the best treatment for the break.

Sometimes a chip is so small you can’t even see it, but you can feel a rough spot on your teeth with your tongue. If this is the case, your dentist will likely buff it out with a small tool made for the purpose. This is very quick and does not require local anesthesia.

For small chips, your dentist may be able to repair the damaged tooth using a procedure called bonding, which is almost like a filling. Dental bonding starts with the dentist etching the tooth surface with a special gel. Then they apply an adhesive to the tooth, followed by a tooth-colored composite resin. The resin is pliable and can be shaped to fit your natural tooth. Once the bonding fuses with your teeth, it is hardened by exposure to ultraviolet light. Dental bonding is a simple procedure that does not require local anesthesia and can be used as long as at least half of the tooth remains intact.

If you have suffered a large chip or badly fractured tooth, a tooth cap or crown may be needed to fix it properly. When placing a coping or crown, your dentist will file away the remaining tooth to make room for the crown to fit properly. If your tooth injury is very serious, it could even have damaged the delicate pulp deep inside the tooth. If this is the case, you may need root canal treatment. A root canal treatment removes the damaged pulp before tooth repair can be achieved.

Chipping teeth is bad enough, but when it’s a front tooth it can be particularly distressing. A good option for a broken front tooth is a dental veneer. Veneers are applied to the surface of your teeth and are made from a thin shell of tooth-colored resin material. They are made in a lab and customized to fit your exact needs to keep your smile looking its best. Veneers can make a chipped tooth look like it never happened.

Don’t hesitate!

Repairing broken teeth is a case where dentistry is both an art and a science. Treatment is readily available and it is important for patients to see a dentist quickly for the best outcome. If you wait too long, more cracks can form, potentially allowing infection to set in and damaging the tooth beyond repair. No matter how you look at it, a chipped tooth is far more than a blemish. Don’t let this chip get worse when a simple procedure might be enough to fix the problem.

If you are near Greater Minnesota or near the Twin Cities, contact us to schedule your appointment!

When further treatment is required

The previously shared treatments at home are just that – treatments at home. If your bite is the result of severe trauma or a sports injury and there is significant bleeding and pain, you should seek medical attention immediately. Sutures or stitches may be needed for healing. Such a procedure should only be performed by a trained dentist and not in the comfort of your own home.

Chances are your cut is minor and you can heal your bitten tongue with a few of the tips above. If you cannot manage the pain, bleeding, or infection, see a dentist for treatment. They can help ensure your tongue biting bites the dust.

Sometimes you need to see your doctor or dentist to treat the cause of this pain. You can prevent cheek pain by practicing good dental hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly.

Molar pain can range from dull to sharp. You may experience molar pain in one spot or throughout your mouth.

You have different sets of molars as you grow up. The back teeth that you get between the ages of 6 and 12 are known as your first and second molars. The third molars are your wisdom teeth, which you get between the ages of 17 and 30.

Molar pain can include pain isolated to a single molar or pain that surrounds one or more of your molars. Symptoms of molar pain depend on the cause but can include:

Molar pain can be related to your teeth or it can be caused by an unrelated medical condition. Some of these causes are interrelated, while others are more isolated.

Read on to learn more about possible causes of back pain.

Sensitivity to cold or heat

Sensitivity to cold and heat occurs as your tooth enamel wears away and deeper layers of the tooth, which contain nerves, are exposed to food and drink. This type of sensitivity can be caused by tooth decay, broken teeth, old fillings, and even gum disease.

Care of temperature-sensitive teeth

If your molars are only sensitive to these temperature changes for a short time, you can try a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth and just brush with up and down strokes.

tooth abscess

An abscess occurs when you develop an infection in your molar from untreated tooth decay. You may have an abscess near the root of your molar or the gum line. An abscess appears as a pocket of pus. You can develop an abscessed tooth from a decayed tooth, an injured tooth, or after dental work.

Care of a swollen tooth

Treatment may include a root canal or even surgery to clean the infected area. You can end up with a crown over your molar to protect the area.

Tooth decay, tooth decay and pulpitis

Tooth decay, also known as tooth decay, can develop in your back teeth due to poor dental hygiene. Some people are just more prone to tooth decay. You may feel a sharp pain or throbbing in a molar that has a cavity.

Pulpitis is the result of inflammation in your tooth caused by tooth decay. This inflammation can cause a bacterial infection and needs to be treated before it causes permanent damage to your tooth or mouth.

Caries, caries and pulpitis care

You may need a filling, crown, or root canal to repair the damage caused by cavities. Pulpitis may require your dentist to clean your tooth, treat it for infection, and reseal it.

To prevent tooth decay, your dentist may recommend sealing your back teeth. Sealants are usually applied to children’s permanent molars when they first come through. This helps protect teeth between the ages of 6 and 14, when they are particularly prone to decay.

Here are some ways you can prevent tooth decay.

periodontitis

This gingivitis can affect your molars and make chewing painful. It causes inflammation, damages the tissues in your gums and wears down the bones near your teeth. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss and is even considered an independent risk factor for coronary heart disease and diabetes.

treatment of periodontitis

Early stages of periodontitis can be treated by your dentist and include:

Removal of tartar and bacteria

root planing

Taking a topical or oral antibiotic

More severe cases of periodontal disease may require surgery.

Cracked filling or cracked tooth

You may get a cracked filling or tooth due to aging or injury. The pain in your molar from a cracked filling or tooth may be sharp and sudden or just flare up when you eat or drink cold and hot food and drink.

Care of a cracked filling or a cracked tooth

Your dentist can treat a cracked filling or tooth and restore function to your molar. A damaged molar cannot repair itself.

Impacted wisdom teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth can cause throbbing pain behind your second molars under your gums. This occurs when wisdom teeth are unable to break through the gum surface. Untreated wisdom teeth can damage your mouth and surrounding teeth.

Care of impacted wisdom teeth

Your dentist may recommend surgically removing affected wisdom teeth to reduce pain and reduce the likelihood of other dental problems.

Sinus infection or sinusitis

You may feel pain in your upper molars due to a sinus infection. These molars are located near your sinuses, and a sinus infection can cause head pressure to radiate to your molars.

Treatment of a sinus infection or sinusitis

Your dentist may recommend seeing a doctor to diagnose a sinus infection or sinusitis. You may be able to treat sinus pressure with an over-the-counter medication.

Teeth grinding and jaw clenching

They may grind their teeth back and forth, causing pain in the molar. You may not realize you have this condition because you grind your teeth at night while you sleep. This condition can wear away tooth enamel, which can lead to molar pain.

Takes care of teeth grinding and jaw clenching

Your doctor may recommend wearing a mouthguard at night to prevent teeth grinding. They may also suggest some behavior and lifestyle adjustments.

Learn more about the causes of teeth grinding and what you can do about it.

jaw conditions

You may experience jaw pain because your jaw isn’t working the way it should. One condition is called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). This can cause pain around your jaw and surrounding muscles. This condition can cause pain when chewing.

Care of jaw diseases

Mild cases of TMJ disorders can be treated at home with over-the-counter (OTC) nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Your dentist may also recommend that you see a doctor to prescribe a muscle relaxant or see a physical therapist. In severe cases, you may need surgery.

Scalloped tongue gets its name from wavy or ridged edges that appear on the sides of a person’s tongue. A scalloped tongue isn’t usually a cause for concern, but its potential causes can lead to further complications and additional symptoms that can affect your dental health if left untreated. The presence of a scalloped tongue can also help diagnose certain medical conditions and identify bad oral habits.

causes

dehydration. Dehydration can cause swelling in your body, including your tongue. The swollen tongue can then press against your teeth, creating jagged edges over time.

Fear. High levels of stress and anxiety can manifest themselves in a variety of ways in the body. These include clenching your jaw, grinding your teeth, and pressing your tongue against your teeth. Pressure on the tongue will indent it over time.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMJ). The hinge joint that connects your jaw to your skull can become stuck and misaligned. This can put extra pressure on the tongue and result in a jagged indentation pattern on the sides of the tongue.

Sleep disorders. Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, bruxism, and teeth clenching and grinding can cause pressure on the tongue. For example, sleep apnea can cause you to press your tongue against your teeth to open the airway. This can lead to a scalloped tongue.

nutritional deficiencies. Scalloped tongue can occur when the body is not getting enough of certain vitamins, such as vitamin B, iron, niacin, and riboflavin.

Smoking. Smoking not only increases inflammation in the body, but also increases the risk of dehydration. Both of these factors affect the likelihood of developing a scalloped tongue.

Other causes of scalloped tongue can include hypothyroidism, genetic disorders or birth defects (such as Down syndrome), and amyloidosis (buildup of proteins in organs). Each of these conditions has unique symptoms, but a common one is tongue swelling, which can lead to scalloped tongue.

treatment

Before treatment can begin, a correct diagnosis must be made. Treatment depends on the cause of the problem. For example, if you have a genetic condition that causes a swollen tongue, surgery to reduce the size of the tongue is an option. If your scalloped tongue is caused by health conditions like hypothyroidism, prescription medications can help.

If you have a sleep disorder, devices like a continuous positive airway pressure device for sleep apnea and a mouth guard for bruxism can help reduce the pressure inside the mouth that causes scalloped tongue. Therapeutic Botox is also available to treat scalloped tongue caused by clenched jaw and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

In addition to the treatments above, there are steps you can take at home to reduce bad habits in your mouth. Drink plenty of water not only to stay hydrated, but also to displace bacteria in the mouth and encourage saliva production for better oral health. Also, eat a healthy, balanced diet to ensure you’re getting the vitamins and minerals you need for a healthy mouth. You should also avoid harmful habits like smoking. Finally, managing your anxiety and stress through yoga, medication, and exercise is important to prevent bad habits like grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw.

A dentist can identify bad oral habits that contribute to a scalloped tongue. In addition, the presence of a clam tongue can help diagnose other conditions, such as hypothyroidism.

If you think you may need a bite correction or mouthguard due to a conch tongue, call our office and make an appointment at (925) 705-7093 or request an appointment online.

The tongue is a muscular organ in the mouth that is important for eating, swallowing and speaking. A sore or painful tongue can be alarming, but is usually not a cause for concern. Most cases of a sore tongue are minor problems that go away on their own or require minimal treatment.

Bites or Injuries Share on Pinterest A common cause of a sore tongue is accidentally biting your tongue while chewing food, or suddenly biting it. Most people have experienced the stabbing pain that comes from accidentally biting your tongue. Because the tongue shares the oral cavity with the teeth, it is not uncommon for a person to bite it while chewing. The tongue can also be injured if the teeth catch in an impact. This sometimes happens in contact sports or as a result of an accident, such as a crash. B. a slip or fall or a car accident. Seizure disorders such as epilepsy can also result in tongue injuries or lacerations when teeth bite down on the tongue during a seizure. It may take several days or more than a week for the sore to fully heal. Gargling with a warm salt water solution can help relieve pain and aid healing. However, serious bites or injuries to the tongue may require medical attention. Tongue injuries or lacerations are common in children. According to a study in the International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry, the decision of whether to repair it with sutures or surgery depends on the child’s age and the severity of the injury. If the injury looks deep or large, or is bleeding profusely, emergency care may be needed.

Oral thrush The fungus Candida is found in the mouth, throat and digestive tract. When the body can’t keep the fungus in check and it overgrows, Candida causes a yeast infection. This is more common in newborns and people with compromised immune systems. When Candida overgrows in the mouth, it is known as oral thrush. It can cause painful yellow or white patches to form on the tongue and inside the mouth. Treatment for thrush may include prescription antifungal medications. It usually gets better about 2 weeks after starting the medication.

Canker sores Share on Pinterest Canker sores are a painful type of blemishes that can appear in the mouth. Usually these pass by themselves. Most people have experienced a painful mouth ulcer at some point. Known medically as canker sores, they can appear in the lips or cheeks and under the tongue. A canker sore looks like a small, round, white spot with a red border and can make eating or talking painful. Experts don’t know exactly what causes mouth ulcers, but suspect they could be caused by: Spicy or acidic foods

emotional stress

physical stress caused by illness

Hormonal changes, especially in women In most cases, cancerous growths heal on their own. Treatments include over-the-counter topical pain relievers, saltwater rinses, or a prescription mouthwash. If canker sores appear more than three times a year or cause significant pain, people should see a doctor or dentist. Canker sores are not contagious.

Cold Sores Not to be confused with mouth ulcers, cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are highly contagious. They are spread through skin-to-skin contact and appear as fluid-filled blisters that ooze and form a crust as they heal. Even a person who doesn’t have an active cold sore can spread it to others. Many children get cold sores from adults kissing them, sharing a drink or dishes, or touching their faces. Cold sores often appear on the outside of the mouth, but they can affect the tongue and cause pain, tingling, and burning. Some doctors prescribe antiviral medications to reduce the severity of sores and make them go away faster. However, cold sores can return later because the herpes virus never goes away once a person has contracted it.

Burning Mouth Syndrome Burning Mouth Syndrome is a painful condition that causes a burning, numb, or tingling sensation on the tongue. The pain can last for months or years, but the mouth will not show any visible problems like sores or redness. Doctors cannot diagnose burning mouth syndrome during an oral exam, so they may have to base a diagnosis on symptoms alone. It’s not always possible to identify a cause, but burning mouth syndrome can be triggered by: allergic reactions to dental products or food

diabetes

thyroid problems

acid reflux

dry mouth

nutritional deficiencies such as B. Iron deficiency. Treatment of this condition depends on a person’s medical history and the severity of the pain.

Glossitis Glossitis means inflammation of the tongue. There are different types of glossitis, but almost all of them can cause a sore or painful tongue. Treatment varies depending on the cause of the glossitis and the amount of pain it causes. Headland The medical term for headland is benign migratory glossitis. This condition occurs when the tiny, finger-like bumps on the tongue known as papillae disappear into small patches. This results in a smooth, red lesion on the tongue, usually surrounded by a white border, giving the tongue a map-like appearance. Some people experience a burning or painful sensation on the tongue. In this case, topical numbing medications or prescription cortisone medications can help manage the pain. The cause of the geographic tongue is not known. There may be a link between geographic tongue and psoriasis, but people without psoriasis can still get geographic tongue. It is not contagious and does not lead to other health problems. Median rhomboid glossitis A smooth, red, flat area in the middle of the tongue is usually median rhomboid glossitis. It often causes no symptoms, so a person may not realize they have it unless a doctor or dentist finds it. However, it can cause tongue pain, especially when eating certain foods. Median rhomboid glossitis is thought to be caused by a fungal infection, so it’s usually treated with antifungal drugs if the pain is bothersome. It’s not contagious. Other Causes of Glossitis The tongue can become inflamed and painful due to many different factors. Other common causes of glossitis are: Allergic reactions People who have severe reactions to certain foods, insect bites, or other things can develop acute or sudden glossitis. This can cause tongue swelling, which can affect breathing. Celiac disease A study in the Journal of Medical Case Reports found that atrophic glossitis was the only sign of celiac disease in some people. Nutritional deficiencies, such as low iron or vitamin B-12 levels A study in the Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine found “a significant association of hemoglobin, iron, and vitamin B-12 deficiency” with glossitis. Similarly, a study in the Canadian Medical Association Journal discussed a person who had a sore, burning tongue and was found to be B-12 deficient.

Tongue Tumors Share on Pinterest Any unexplained bleeding should be evaluated by a doctor. A tumor on the tongue is another possible cause of a sore tongue. A tumor can appear as a sore, bump, or red or white spot on the tongue that doesn’t go away. Other symptoms that can accompany a tumor on the tongue include numbness, pain when swallowing, and unexplained bleeding. Tumors can be either benign or malignant. Anyone who thinks they have a tumor on their tongue should see a doctor right away.

Good Oral Health Habits and Tongue Care A sore tongue is not usually caused by oral care habits. However, keeping the mouth healthy and looking for changes in the appearance of the tongue can help to treat problems early. Good oral hygiene typically includes: Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste

Floss at least once a day

See a dentist at least every 6 months or as often as recommended. Brushing the tongue can help prevent bad breath, but aggressive brushing or scraping isn’t necessary and can cause irritation. People should also avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, especially if the tongue is sensitive or dry mouth is a problem.

Tongue biting Tongue biting is relatively common and usually happens accidentally. You can bite your tongue: when eating

after dental anesthesia

while sleeping

due to stress

during a seizure

following a traumatic event, such as a bicycle or car accident, or a fall

In sports, tongue-biting injuries are common and often minor, particularly in children. They are usually more severe in adults. The healing time for a tongue bite depends on the severity of the injury. Less severe tongue injuries will heal on their own within a week. More severe tongue injuries require medical attention, such as stitches and medication. It may take several weeks or months to fully heal. A tongue bite can bleed. Even small bites can bleed, but these do not usually require medical attention. Get medical help right away if your tongue: Bleeds excessively

bleeds a second time after the original bleeding has stopped

appears red or swollen

feels warm

has red streaks or pus

is very painful

is accompanied by fever

is visibly deformed If you bite your tongue, you can also bite your lip or the inside of your mouth. Treating these areas of the mouth is similar to treating the tongue.

Treating a tongue bite at home If the tongue bite is minor, you can treat it at home. Follow these steps to minimize pain and ensure the injury heals properly: Wash your hands with soap and water or wear latex gloves. Rinse your mouth with water so you can see the injury better. Apply pressure to the injury site with gauze or cloth to stop the bleeding. Put ice or an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth on the outside of the lips or mouth if there is swelling. Call a doctor if the bleeding doesn’t stop or if you notice a visible deformity, signs of infection, or new bleeding. If the injury is severe, be sure to follow a doctor’s advice in addition to the following home treatments: Eat foods that are soft and easy to swallow.

Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to reduce pain and swelling.

Apply a cold compress to the injured area for five minutes several times a day. You can also suck on a piece of fruit-flavored ice cream or popsicle.

Rinse your mouth with a saline solution after eating to relieve pain and keep the wound clean. To make a salt water solution, mix 1 teaspoon of non-iodized salt in 1 cup of warm water.

When to See Your Doctor Call your doctor for a tongue bite that won’t stop bleeding or shows signs of infection, new bleeding, or deformity. In adults, a good rule of thumb is to see a doctor if the edges of a tongue injury don’t come together when the tongue is still. Get medical help for a child right away if you notice: a gaping cut on the tongue, lips, or inside the mouth

severe pain that does not improve within two hours of taking over-the-counter pain relievers

Difficulty swallowing liquids or spitting up

Inability to fully open or close the mouth

Signs of infection and fever Check all tongue injuries daily for changes in how they look or feel. Mouth sores that are clean and healthy may appear light pink to white. Contact your doctor right away if you notice signs of infection, such as E.g. pus

Fever

Pain that gets worse instead of better Call 911 or your local emergency services if you have major mouth bleeding that can’t be stopped or if you have trouble breathing. These can be signs of a life-threatening emergency.

Diagnosis and Medical Treatment If you do decide to see your doctor, they will first try to stop the bleeding and visually examine the area to determine the right treatment for you. Most bites on the tongue, lips, and inside the mouth are called lacerations. These are deep cuts. It’s also possible that you had a wound that healed but became infected. This too requires treatment. Depending on the severity of your injury, your doctor may decide that you need stitches

Antibiotics used to treat or prevent infections

reattachment to bandage a bitten off part of the tongue (very rare) Don’t stop a course of antibiotics even if you feel better.

Healing Time for a Small Tongue You can expect a small sore on the tongue, lips, or mouth to heal in three to four days. A more serious injury that required stitches or reattaches may take several weeks to a few months to heal. Mouth infections are rare but can occur. They usually disappear completely after a few weeks.

Preventing Tongue Biting During Sleep If you or your child tend to bite their tongue during sleep, consult a dentist about an oral appliance to prevent biting. This device slides easily over the teeth and prevents the tongue from moving around the mouth while you sleep. It can also prevent grinding or chewing. Biting the tongue during seizures Adults and children with epilepsy can bite their tongues during seizures. These bites can be severe. Follow your epilepsy treatment plan to prevent tongue-biting during seizures. Take all prescribed medications consistently and avoid seizure triggers that you and your doctor may have identified. Tongue Biting During Sports Activities It is common to bite your tongue during certain sports activities, particularly those that involve sudden or rapid movements, hard objects, and physical contact. Wear a soft mouthguard during these activities to avoid biting your tongue. Some sports, such as hockey, require wearing a helmet or mask, which can also prevent accidental biting. Biting your tongue while eating You are more likely to bite your tongue if you eat particularly hot or cold food, or if you eat very quickly. To prevent this, cool or heat food properly before eating and take your time.

When further treatment is required

The previously shared treatments at home are just that – treatments at home. If your bite is the result of severe trauma or a sports injury and there is significant bleeding and pain, you should seek medical attention immediately. Sutures or stitches may be needed for healing. Such a procedure should only be performed by a trained dentist and not in the comfort of your own home.

Chances are your cut is minor and you can heal your bitten tongue with a few of the tips above. If you cannot manage the pain, bleeding, or infection, see a dentist for treatment. They can help ensure your tongue biting bites the dust.

Tongue biting Tongue biting is relatively common and usually happens accidentally. You can bite your tongue: when eating

after dental anesthesia

while sleeping

due to stress

during a seizure

following a traumatic event, such as a bicycle or car accident, or a fall

In sports, tongue-biting injuries are common and often minor, particularly in children. They are usually more severe in adults. The healing time for a tongue bite depends on the severity of the injury. Less severe tongue injuries will heal on their own within a week. More severe tongue injuries require medical attention, such as stitches and medication. It may take several weeks or months to fully heal. A tongue bite can bleed. Even small bites can bleed, but these do not usually require medical attention. Get medical help right away if your tongue: Bleeds excessively

bleeds a second time after the original bleeding has stopped

appears red or swollen

feels warm

has red streaks or pus

is very painful

is accompanied by fever

is visibly deformed If you bite your tongue, you can also bite your lip or the inside of your mouth. Treating these areas of the mouth is similar to treating the tongue.

Treating a tongue bite at home If the tongue bite is minor, you can treat it at home. Follow these steps to minimize pain and ensure the injury heals properly: Wash your hands with soap and water or wear latex gloves. Rinse your mouth with water so you can see the injury better. Apply pressure to the injury site with gauze or cloth to stop the bleeding. Put ice or an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth on the outside of the lips or mouth if there is swelling. Call a doctor if the bleeding doesn’t stop or if you notice a visible deformity, signs of infection, or new bleeding. If the injury is severe, be sure to follow a doctor’s advice in addition to the following home treatments: Eat foods that are soft and easy to swallow.

Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) to reduce pain and swelling.

Apply a cold compress to the injured area for five minutes several times a day. You can also suck on a piece of fruit-flavored ice cream or popsicle.

Rinse your mouth with a saline solution after eating to relieve pain and keep the wound clean. To make a salt water solution, mix 1 teaspoon of non-iodized salt in 1 cup of warm water.

When to See Your Doctor Call your doctor for a tongue bite that won’t stop bleeding or shows signs of infection, new bleeding, or deformity. In adults, a good rule of thumb is to see a doctor if the edges of a tongue injury don’t come together when the tongue is still. Get medical help for a child right away if you notice: a gaping cut on the tongue, lips, or inside the mouth

severe pain that does not improve within two hours of taking over-the-counter pain relievers

Difficulty swallowing liquids or spitting up

Inability to fully open or close the mouth

Signs of infection and fever Check all tongue injuries daily for changes in how they look or feel. Mouth sores that are clean and healthy may appear light pink to white. Contact your doctor right away if you notice signs of infection, such as E.g. pus

Fever

Pain that gets worse instead of better Call 911 or your local emergency services if you have major mouth bleeding that can’t be stopped or if you have trouble breathing. These can be signs of a life-threatening emergency.

Diagnosis and Medical Treatment If you do decide to see your doctor, they will first try to stop the bleeding and visually examine the area to determine the right treatment for you. Most bites on the tongue, lips, and inside the mouth are called lacerations. These are deep cuts. It’s also possible that you had a wound that healed but became infected. This too requires treatment. Depending on the severity of your injury, your doctor may decide that you need stitches

Antibiotics used to treat or prevent infections

reattachment to bandage a bitten off part of the tongue (very rare) Don’t stop a course of antibiotics even if you feel better.

Healing Time for a Small Tongue You can expect a small sore on the tongue, lips, or mouth to heal in three to four days. A more serious injury that required stitches or reattaches may take several weeks to a few months to heal. Mouth infections are rare but can occur. They usually disappear completely after a few weeks.

Preventing Tongue Biting During Sleep If you or your child tend to bite their tongue during sleep, consult a dentist about an oral appliance to prevent biting. This device slides easily over the teeth and prevents the tongue from moving around the mouth while you sleep. It can also prevent grinding or chewing. Biting the tongue during seizures Adults and children with epilepsy can bite their tongues during seizures. These bites can be severe. Follow your epilepsy treatment plan to prevent tongue-biting during seizures. Take all prescribed medications consistently and avoid seizure triggers that you and your doctor may have identified. Tongue Biting During Sports Activities It is common to bite your tongue during certain sports activities, particularly those that involve sudden or rapid movements, hard objects, and physical contact. Wear a soft mouthguard during these activities to avoid biting your tongue. Some sports, such as hockey, require wearing a helmet or mask, which can also prevent accidental biting. Biting your tongue while eating You are more likely to bite your tongue if you eat particularly hot or cold food, or if you eat very quickly. To prevent this, cool or heat food properly before eating and take your time.

tooth contouring. tooth reshaping. tooth files. make tooth slim. These are some of the names for a procedure performed to slightly reduce the size of a tooth to improve its appearance or the way it fits in your mouth. Many people refer to this process as “teeth shaving”. The technical name for this procedure is odontoplasty, or enamelplasty, when a small amount of enamel is removed from a tooth to reshape it. You can also call it occlusal equilibration. This process can be done for cosmetic reasons, e.g. B. to smooth the appearance of a deformed or chipped tooth. Dentists can remove the jagged edges of teeth called mamelons to create a more even tooth line. A dentist may also suggest shaving your teeth for medical reasons, including improving your bite or preparing a damaged tooth for a crown.

Purpose and benefits of tooth contouring? After carefully examining your teeth, jaw, and dental X-rays, a dentist may decide that one or more of your teeth could benefit from reshaping or filing. There are a number of reasons for this. Putting damaged teeth back into shape A small chip in your tooth might not seem like a big deal, but you can spot it every time you look in the mirror. Shaving or filing down that tooth to create a more even edge can do wonders when it comes to improving your smile. Create more space in your mouth You may have a small jaw or large teeth. Or your teeth are just very close together in your mouth. Tight teeth can cause a range of problems including jaw pain, misalignment and crooked teeth. Filing some of those teeth can create just enough space to reduce crowding — and any problems it causes. When adding a crown A crown is a cap that fits over a damaged tooth or a tooth with a root canal. Typically, a dentist will need to trim your tooth (known as preparing the tooth) before fitting the crown. In this case, the crown covers the tooth so you don’t see any traces of the actual shaving or filing process. Veneer Tooth Shaving A veneer is similar to a crown in that it covers damage to a tooth. However, a veneer usually only covers the front of a tooth. Sometimes a dentist may need to gently file away a piece of your tooth in preparation for a veneer, but it’s a lot less reduction than with a crown. It is also much rarer than a crown. A dentist may also need to shave or file away some of the teeth opposite the veneer just to make sure they fit together properly. Veneers can not only cover damaged teeth, but also change the size, colour, length and shape of your teeth and fill gaps. Shaving Tooth For Braces Orthodontics was developed to address problems such as crowded or misaligned teeth. Braces and retainers can help move teeth into better positions, which can relieve crowding or misalignment. Sometimes, however, an orthodontist needs to shave off a tooth or two a bit as part of the process. Adjusting your bite Open your mouth. Now close your mouth so that your upper teeth are resting on your lower teeth. Are they a good match? If not, a dentist may suggest shaving or contouring any teeth that prevent them from touching easily. For example, your canines may be a bit too long, which can affect your bite. Misaligned teeth can affect your bite. As a result, they can cause a range of problems ranging from pain in the jaw muscle to loose teeth and headaches. Research suggests that fixing the problem can reduce or eliminate issues like tooth sensitivity and pain. It can allow your jaw to close properly.

Does shaving your teeth hurt? The short answer is no. A tooth correction should not hurt. The dentist removes only a little of your tooth’s surface enamel and does not touch the pulp or tooth root. You shouldn’t even need anesthesia to have a small piece of tooth enamel removed.

Are there any side effects or risks? In general, this type of dental procedure is not considered very risky. In fact, tooth contouring is often viewed as a conservative procedure. However, some research suggests that performing odontoplasty on an already fragile tooth may be riskier. If a dentist needs to reshape a broken or damaged tooth to prepare it for a crown, it is possible to use materials to build up the tooth so it can wear the crown.

How much does tooth shaping cost? As with any dental or orthodontic procedure, the cost depends on factors such as where you live and the dentist’s experience. Minor reshaping of a tooth can range from $50 to $300. The cost of occlusal balancing, which involves reshaping multiple teeth and leveling your bite, can range from $650 to $1,500, which should include aftercare. Talk to a dentist if you’re concerned about the cost. It is possible that your supplementary dental insurance will cover part of this. Your coverage may depend on the medical reason for having the procedure performed.

Who Should Consider Dental Contouring? If you’ve ever been bothered by a tooth with a somewhat jagged edge or chip, especially if it’s in a highly visible spot, you may be a candidate for tooth contouring. If you are having trouble with your bite, you should also consider tooth contouring, reshaping, or equilibration. When your teeth don’t fit together properly, it can cause pain in your jaw and head, and possibly even lead to a condition in a joint that connects your lower jaw to your skull called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).

Can you shave your own teeth at home? A quick foray into YouTube reveals countless videos of people claiming they’ve successfully shaved their own teeth at home using a nail file or sandpaper. You might be tempted to try it, especially if you just have a small chip or sharp edge you want to address. But just because you could do it doesn’t mean you should. Experts say see a dentist instead. Attempting to file or shave your teeth at home can damage tooth enamel, which can lead to a whole host of other problems. You cannot regrow tooth enamel, so any damage is irreversible. You might even need a veneer or crown if the damage is severe enough.

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It can be really painful to chip, crack, or chip a tooth. Teeth can be damaged in a number of ways, and the damage can be minor or major depending on the condition of your teeth and the type of injury. Unless the damage is a small chip, there is no permanent way to fix it without seeing a dentist. The best thing you can do in the meantime is treat the pain and protect your tooth and the inside of your mouth to prevent further injury.

What To Do If You Chip Or Chip A Tooth While doctors don’t recommend home fixes for chipped teeth, there are some things you can do to protect your teeth and mouth. What to do after a tooth is chipped If you chip or chip a tooth, you should immediately rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it, according to the American Dental Association (ADA). Apply pressure to stop bleeding and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken piece of tooth, wrap it in damp gauze and bring it with you to the dentist. What to do if you lose a tooth If the tooth has popped out of your mouth, grasp it by the crown with a gauze swab and, if possible, reinsert it into the tooth cavity. If the tooth looks dirty, you can rinse it with water. Do not scrub or clean with any other solution or remove tissue debris. If you can’t get it into the outlet, you can put it in a glass of milk, saline, or water. Try to get to the dentist within 30 minutes. Relieving Pain from Chipped Teeth Flush the inside of your mouth with warm water and apply cold compresses to the outside area every few minutes to keep swelling down. You can take over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, but make sure you don’t take more than the recommended dose. You can also apply clove oil to the area. The oil contains eugenol, a numbing agent with anti-inflammatory properties. How to Protect Your Mouth Until You See a Dentist If your tooth has a small chip and a jagged edge, you can apply toothwax over the edge to prevent it from cutting your tongue or damaging your mouth. This is not recommended if you have a large chip or are missing part of the tooth, as flossing could break more of the tooth. Many pharmacies carry OTC temporary kits that contain dental wax. Avoid chewing on the side of the damaged tooth and try flossing around the tooth to reduce pressure and irritation.

Injuries that need treatment and those that don’t The most common teeth that break are the molars of the lower jaw, likely due to their pointed cusps that forcefully snap into the grooves of the molars at the top of the mouth, according to a 2015 article schleifen published in the European Journal of Dentistry. However, any tooth can fracture with injuries ranging from minor cosmetic damage to serious injury. Deep cracks can run to the root or from the center of the tooth to the pulp chamber, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Cracks may not be visible and may hide in the tooth or under the gums. Some cracks and chips have no symptoms or symptoms that can be confused with tooth decay, sensitivity, or periodontal disease. In general, the deeper and broader the damage, the more extensive the treatment. A dentist can diagnose the extent of the damage by examining the tooth with or without a magnifying glass, performing a bite test, and sometimes using dental X-rays. Cracks That May Not Require Treatment Not every crack or chip is serious enough to warrant treatment, and some are quite common. For example, craze lines are small cracks that only appear in tooth enamel and are common according to a 2014 review of the literature. Cracks that need to be seen by a dentist You will probably need to see a dentist for anything but the smallest crack or chip, as it’s hard to tell how deep the damage might be. There are no effective home remedies to prevent further injury to your teeth and mouth, and the sharp edges of a broken tooth could cut your soft tissues, leading to more pain, infection, and potentially more costly treatments. In some cases, left untreated damage can lead to root canal treatment, tooth loss, or other complications from infection. Cracks that need immediate attention While you can wait for an appointment for many types of tooth injuries, others may require emergency treatment. For example, if you knock a tooth out, the ADA recommends that if you can find it, put it back in the tooth socket, and see your dentist right away, you might be able to salvage it. It is also considered an emergency if you are bleeding profusely or in severe pain.

Protection with a Temporary Teeth Repair Kit Temporary repair kits for broken teeth are available at drugstores and online and can be helpful while you wait for a dentist visit. Some kits include tooth wax to cover jagged edges, and others include material that can be molded into the shape of a tooth to fill in gaps left by broken or missing teeth. These kits are for temporary use only and do not address the deeper issues that can lead to infection, tooth loss, or other complications. They should not replace proper dental care. Check out these products available online.

Repair Methods for Chipped or Chipped Teeth Treatment depends on how large the crack or fracture is and where it is located. Possible treatments are: Polishing

connection

Root canal treatment and crown placement

Tooth extraction and implant placement Surface lines and tiny cracks may not need treatment, but a 2019 study showed that tooth decay, severe pain, and X-ray evidence of a crack were all strong predictors that endodontists would perform restorative procedures. Chipped Tooth If the damage is minor, a dentist can polish the surface or smooth a broken or jagged edge. This is called cosmetic contouring. You can also use dental cement to fill gaps and fissures. During bonding, dentists lightly grind the tooth, dab on a maintenance liquid, and then apply tooth-colored composite resin. After that, they bring it into the right shape. Sometimes the dentist can also reattach a broken tooth. These procedures can often be completed in a single visit. Filling with possible root canal A crack or chip that goes deeper than the surface requires a more extensive repair. Sometimes the tear extends into the pulp, which may require root canal treatment. During the procedure, an endodontist removes the inflamed or infected pulp, disinfects the inside of the tooth, and fills and seals it with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. After that, they close it with a filling or a crown. While root canal treatment is a metaphor for all things horrible and embarrassing, the procedure is actually much more routine and far less painful than it used to be – now it’s usually no more painful than a filling. Surgery Molar teeth have more than one root. If only one root is broken, a root amputation may be performed to save the rest of the tooth. This is called a hemisection. The remaining tooth needs a root canal treatment and crown. Your endodontist may also recommend surgery to find cracks or hidden canals that won’t show up on x-rays, or to remove calcium deposits from a previous root canal. Extraction Sometimes root canal treatment does not save a tooth. For many endodontists, the depth of the crack determines how likely they are to recommend extraction. A 2019 study found that the deeper the crack, the more likely endodontists were to extract the tooth. In the case of a split tooth, 98.48 percent of the endodontists in the study opted for extraction. A dentist may also suggest extraction if the crack extends below the gum line. If you have a tooth extraction, your doctor will likely recommend an implant that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

How much does it cost to fix a chipped or chipped tooth? It can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars for a cosmetic procedure to $2,500 to $3,000 for a root canal and crown, depending on where you live. If you end up having a tooth extracted and replaced with an implant, the cost can range from $3,000 to $5,000. Most dental plans cover some or most of the cost of dental repairs, depending on the policy, although many insurers don’t cover purely cosmetic procedures. Often, repairs only require a visit or two to the office, but with more comprehensive treatment, you can skip some work. You can usually return to work the day after a root canal, but some dentists schedule extractions and surgeries on a Friday so you can rest over the weekend before returning to work on Monday.