Treatment Options for Broken Front Tooth with Dental Crown

Q: Treatment Options for Broken Front Tooth with Dental Crown

Hello： A front tooth has a crown that has fractured along with the tooth from the root. <br>We need to assess whether the remaining root can be preserved. <br>If the length and stability of the remaining root are sufficient, we can consider retaining the root and then performing

The front tooth is broken?

I had a front tooth that had the nerve removed and was fitted with a crown for about 10 years.
One day, while eating a snack, the real tooth broke off along with the crown from the root.
The left side of my front tooth has a single crown, while the right side has a row of five connected crowns (with the 1st, 3rd, and 5th crowns being reduced in size, the 2nd tooth extracted, and the 4th tooth remaining with the root but no tooth).
What treatment options are available? I am not considering removable dentures.

Xiao Yu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/09/04

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Hello: A front tooth has a crown that has fractured along with the tooth from the root.
We need to assess whether the remaining root can be preserved.
If the length and stability of the remaining root are sufficient, we can consider retaining the root and then performing a root canal treatment followed by a new crown.
If the remaining root is insufficient in length or stability, it will need to be extracted.
After the wound heals, we can consider either removing the existing crowns or bridges on the adjacent teeth to create a longer bridge, or we can choose not to disturb the adjacent crowns or bridges and proceed directly with dental implant treatment for the missing tooth.
Wishing you peace and happiness.

Reply Date: 2012/09/04

More Info

When dealing with a broken front tooth that has a dental crown, especially one that has been in place for about ten years, there are several treatment options to consider. Given your situation, where the tooth has fractured at the root level, it is crucial to assess the extent of the damage and the overall health of the surrounding teeth and gums.

Treatment Options:
1. Re-evaluation of the Crown: If the crown is intact but the underlying tooth structure is compromised, a dentist may be able to re-crown the tooth. This involves removing the existing crown, assessing the tooth's condition, and potentially placing a new crown if enough tooth structure remains. However, if the fracture is below the gum line or if the tooth is deemed non-restorable, this option may not be viable.

2. Root Canal Treatment: If the tooth has been previously treated with a root canal and has now fractured, it may still be possible to perform a retreatment. This involves cleaning out the root canal system again and sealing it properly. After this, a new crown can be placed. However, if the fracture is too severe, this option may not be applicable.

3. Dental Implant: Given that you are not considering removable dentures, a dental implant could be an excellent option. This involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone to serve as a new tooth root. After the implant integrates with the bone, a crown can be placed on top. This option is often preferred for broken teeth that cannot be saved, as it provides a permanent solution and maintains the integrity of the jawbone.

4. Bridge: If there are adjacent teeth that can support a bridge, this might be a suitable option. A bridge involves anchoring a false tooth (or teeth) to the adjacent healthy teeth. However, this would require altering the adjacent teeth, which may not be ideal if they are healthy.

5. Orthodontic Considerations: Since you mentioned having a row of crowns on the right side, it’s essential to consider how any treatment will affect your overall dental alignment. If you plan to undergo orthodontic treatment in the future, it may be wise to consult with an orthodontist to ensure that any restorative work aligns with your long-term dental goals.

Additional Considerations:
- Consultation with Specialists: Given the complexity of your situation, it may be beneficial to consult with both a restorative dentist and a periodontist. They can provide insights into the health of your gums and bone structure, which are crucial for any restorative procedure.

- Long-term Maintenance: Regardless of the treatment chosen, maintaining good oral hygiene is vital. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings will help ensure that any new restorations last as long as possible.

- Aesthetic Concerns: Since the front teeth are highly visible, discussing aesthetic options with your dentist is essential. Modern materials for crowns and bridges can closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth, ensuring that your smile remains attractive.

In conclusion, while the options for treating a broken front tooth with a crown can vary based on the extent of the damage, consulting with dental professionals will help you determine the best course of action tailored to your specific needs and preferences.

Similar Q&A

Dealing with a Broken Front Tooth: Options and Considerations

Hello doctor, my front tooth is broken on the lower right side, and it looks quite bad. I just started college and have been considering whether to get dental work done. I asked friends and doctors, and they all suggested root canal treatment, tooth grinding, and crowns. However,...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
If the fracture of the front tooth is extensive, simply filling it will not be secure and may easily come off. Therefore, a better approach is to perform root canal treatment and then place a crown. If the loss is too significant, it may be necessary to secure it with screws befo...

Dealing with a Broken Front Tooth: Treatment Options and Costs

Doctor, my friend accidentally broke my front tooth yesterday during New Year's Eve, about 1/3 to 1/2 of it. I feel like the nerve might be affected. Should I get a filling or a crown? Will the cost be very expensive?

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
In the above situation, it may be necessary to take an X-ray to assess whether the damage to the front tooth is close to the pulp chamber, especially if there are sensitivity symptoms. It is recommended to perform a root canal treatment followed by the placement of a crown. The c...

Should You Get a Dental Implant for a Broken Front Tooth?

Hello, doctor. My lower front tooth suddenly broke a corner while I was eating, and that tooth already had a cavity which was treated before, so the tooth structure is relatively thin. Now that it has suddenly fractured, I would like to ask if treatment is necessary, and if so, w...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
Whether a dental crown is needed after a front tooth fracture depends on the extent and depth of the fracture. If the fracture is limited to the enamel and there are no symptoms of sensitivity to hot or cold, then dental bonding may be considered, and a crown may not be necessary...

Dealing with a Cracked Front Tooth: Pain Management and Treatment Options

Hello, doctor. I had a car accident and my front tooth crown was broken in half, with the remaining part cracked on the inside (which means the tooth has become thinner). The emergency physician temporarily filled it, and during my follow-up visit, they said it should be possible...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
If a dental crown has fractured due to trauma and is temporarily repaired but continues to cause pain, it is recommended to undergo root canal treatment, followed by consideration for a crown.