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Broken Tooth Repair in Hillsboro, OR A broken tooth rarely happens at a convenient time. Whether it occurs while biting into something hard, during a fall, or as the result of an old filling finally giving way, the sudden change in your smile can be alarming. The good news is that a broken tooth is one of the most common dental emergencies our emergency dentist in Hillsboro treats, and there are several effective ways to repair it depending on the size and location of the damage. Understanding your options available at Hoffman Dental can help you feel more prepared and less anxious if it ever happens to you. If you have chipped or cracked a tooth, or any dental emergency, do not wait for the discomfort to worsen. Call (503) 648-7700 today to schedule an appointment and get your smile back on track. Common Causes Of A Broken ToothTeeth are strong, but they are not indestructible. A number of everyday situations can lead to a chip, crack, or full break, including:
In many cases, a tooth that breaks was already compromised by decay or a prior restoration, which is one of the reasons routine dental visits matter even when nothing seems wrong. Signs You May Have A Broken ToothSome breaks are obvious, with a visible piece of tooth missing or a sharp edge you can feel with your tongue. Others are more subtle. Watch for the following signs:
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to schedule an appointment promptly. A tooth left untreated can develop further cracks, become infected, or suffer additional damage.  How A Broken Tooth Is RepairedTreatment depends on how much of the tooth structure has been lost and whether the inner pulp has been affected. Your dentist will examine the tooth, often with the help of a digital X-ray, to determine the best path forward. Repair options include:
Each of these treatments is designed to restore both function and appearance, so the tooth looks natural and performs well during everyday biting and chewing. In the case of tooth extraction, we can discuss restorations such as dental implants to replace your tooth. What To Do Right After A Tooth BreaksHow you respond in the first few minutes and hours after a break can make a real difference in the outcome. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clear away any debris, and if you can locate the broken piece, save it and bring it to your appointment. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling, and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until you have been seen. Over-the-counter pain relief can help manage discomfort in the meantime, but it is not a substitute for professional treatment. Protecting Your Teeth From Future BreaksOnce your tooth has been repaired, a few simple habits can help prevent the same thing from happening again. Avoid chewing on ice, pens, or other hard non-food items, and consider a custom night guard if you grind your teeth while sleeping. Athletes should wear a properly fitted mouthguard during contact sports. Keeping up with regular checkups also allows our team to catch small cracks or weak spots before they turn into a full break. A broken tooth does not have to mean a long-term problem. With timely treatment from Hoffman Dental, most breaks can be repaired quickly and the tooth restored to its full function and appearance. |
 Hours Mon Tues Wed Thur Fri 7am to 5pm 7am to 5pm 7am to 5pm 7am to 3pm Twice a month |