A molar broke off at the gum line, and the dentist had to remove it. Here’s what you need to know about this standard procedure.
What is a Molar?
A molar is a tooth with two or more sharp, pointed surfaces. Molars are essential for chewing food. When a molar breaks, the dentist may have to remove it.
5 Symptoms of Broken Tooth
Here are the 5 symptoms of a broken tooth:
1. Toothaches
Various factors can cause toothaches, but the most common cause is a bacterial or viral infection. Toothaches can also be caused by an abscess, a pus-filled mass that forms in the tooth pulp (the area around the tooth’s nerve). When this happens, the pain and tenderness are usually extreme. Other causes of toothache include:
- A chip or crack in one or more teeth.
- A problem with the jawbone (such as an overgrown bony spur).
- Problems with your gum line (such as gum disease).
2. Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are a symptom of several different problems. They can result from an infection or a problem with the way your teeth are arranged. Bleeding gums can also be caused by a fracture or a missing tooth.
If you have bleeding gums, you’ll usually notice that they start to bleed either when you brush your teeth or eat. The bleeding will usually stop after a few hours, but it can continue for weeks or even months in some cases. If the bleeding is constant, it may signify that there’s something more serious going on, and you should see a doctor.
Other symptoms accompanying bleeding gums include pain and swelling around the gum line. If the gum line starts to recede (shrink), it may become tender to the touch.
3. Jaw Pain
Some people experience jaw pain when their molar breaks off at the gum line. The pain can be intense and last for a few days. There may also be swelling, redness, and difficulty opening your mouth. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible.
4. Numbness Or Tingling In The Tooth Area
The symptom of numbness or tingling in the tooth area can signify that the molar has broken off at the gum line. If left untreated, this could lead to tooth decay and even tooth loss. If you are experiencing this symptom, it is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation and treatment plan.
5. Difficulty Chewing Or Swallowing
Some people have difficulty chewing or swallowing because their molar broke off at the gum line. This can make it difficult to eat and drink, and it can also lead to other problems, such as tooth decay. If you have trouble chewing or swallowing, talk to your doctor. They may be able to diagnose the problem and recommend a treatment plan.
What Happens When a Molar Breaks Off?
The tooth is usually still attached to the gum line when a molar breaks off. This can cause pain and difficulty in eating. If the break is near the tooth’s root, it may require a root canal. If the break is near the tip of the tooth, a crown may be needed.
How Is a Molar Removed?
The molar is removed by breaking it off at the gum line. This is done with a unique tool called a dental drill. The dentist first makes a small hole in the molar and then inserts the drill. The drill bit breaks off the tooth, and the molar falls out.
What Are the Risks of a Molar Removal?
If a molar is removed, there are risks involved. The most common risk is that the tooth will not grow back in place. If the tooth is not in its correct position, it can become loose and eventually fall out. Another risk of molar removal is that the root canal treatment will not be effective if the molar is removed too far down into the root canal system. If this happens, the tooth may need to be replaced altogether.
Can a dentist fix a tooth broken at the gum line?
There are a few ways that a dentist could potentially fix a tooth broken at the gum line. If the tooth is broken off, the dentist may be able to put it back in place using a dental implant or a temporary bridge. However, if the tooth is severely damaged, it may need to be removed altogether. Consultation with a specialist is always recommended to ensure that the best option is chosen for each case.
How do you fix a tooth that is snapped off at the gum line?
There are a few ways to fix a tooth that is snapped off at the gum line. If the tooth is still attached to the gum, you can try to reattach it by using tweezers and a needle. If the tooth is not attached to the gum, you can remove it with a dental mirror or tongs. After removing the tooth, you will need to clean the area where it was snapped off and replace the gum tissue.
Is a broken molar an emergency?
The answer to this question depends on the situation. If there is blood present or the molar is loose, it would be considered an emergency. However, if the molar is just broken off or doesn’t appear to be causing any problems, it may not be necessary to go to the hospital.
Treatment of molar brok.
- Remove the tooth and save it in a safe place
- Apply ice, pressure, and elevation to the area
- Apply a topical anesthetic
- Insert a temporary crown or bridge
- Perform an entire root canal
Conclusion
If you are experiencing pain or difficulty eating, it is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible. If the molar is broken off, it may be possible to fix it at home using ice, pressure, and elevation. If the molar is loose or blood present, you will need to go to the hospital. You will need to have an entire root canal performed to remove the tooth and save it. If you’re currently looking for a dentist right now, you can reach out to this one that provides services like crowns, dental implants, and dentures in Charlotte.