When a tooth completely breaks off at the gumline it is usually because the tooth has gradually weakened over time due to decay and possibly too much dental work, such as repeated fillings. Unfortunately, while most dentists will do all they can to preserve your teeth, teeth broken at the gumline can rarely be saved.
Extraction is the Most Likely Course of Action
When a tooth breaks off completely at the gumline the root is exposed. Your mouth is teeming with bacteria, and it is only a matter of time before they invade the tooth. Two things can happen once bacteria invade the cavity left behind after such a breakage:
- Infected Root: If the nerve of your tooth is still alive, it won't be for very long because now that it is exposed, bacteria and food debris will soon irritate it, causing it to become infected. While there is always a chance of saving a root, or performing a root canal, with no tooth structure left above the gumline, extraction might be the best option. Only your dentist can make that decision.
- Dental Abscess: When the nerve dies the tooth is essentially dead. A dead nerve is a virtual feast for bacteria. Once they invade the cavity and begin to eat away at the dead root, it will likely become infected. When this happens, the infection could spread to your jawbone at the tips of the root, after which an abscess will form, either around the root or become clearly visible on your gum. Abscesses, which often resemble pimples, are your body's means of draining pus from the infected area.
This is why it is so important that you seek out a dentist immediately. Abscesses are painful, and in rare cases, the infection can spread to other parts of the body.
Crown Lengthening is an Option in Some Cases
In some cases, a dentist may be able to perform a crown lengthening procedure to save the tooth. This involves lowering the gum around the tooth to expose more of the tooth structure. Once your gum has healed, a post and crown can be placed over what remains of the tooth.
However, in general, dentists recommend extraction as teeth broken to the gumline tend to be too badly damaged by decay to warrant saving. If decay is minimal, a skilled dentist can save the tooth.
The Extraction Process is Surprisingly Simple
Extracting a tooth broken at the gumline is a lot less difficult than you might imagine. Once your dentist has numbed the area, using ultra thin dental implements as levers, they can loosen the tooth and extract it.
You Can Replace the Tooth with a Dental Implant or Bridge
Once extracted, you should opt for either a dental bridge or an implant. If you choose neither and leave the space as it is, the adjacent teeth will begin to lean into the gap over time, making your smile crooked, and altering your bite. The cheapest option is a dental bridge. However, dental implants are a better option because they preserve bone and are easier to clean than bridges.
If one of your teeth has broken at the gumline don't leave it and hope for the best. Book an appointment with your family dentist before infection has a chance to set in. The sooner you get it treated, the better your chances of keeping the tooth.
