A broken root canal tooth is an emergency that requires prompt attention. Even though the nerve has been removed, the tooth remains vulnerable to complications like infection, pain, and further damage. Seeking treatment quickly improves the chances of saving the tooth and preventing serious issues.
Why a Broken Root Canal Tooth Needs Urgent Treatment
A tooth that’s had a root canal is already compromised. Once it breaks, that compromised structure becomes even weaker, and the risks go up quickly. Prompt treatment matters.
High Risk of Infection
When a root canal tooth breaks, it can expose inner surfaces of the tooth that aren’t meant to be open to the elements. While the nerves have been removed during the root canal, the tiny canals inside the tooth can still harbor bacteria. If bacteria get in, they can multiply fast and spread to your jawbone, sinuses, or even your bloodstream in severe cases.
Exposed Nerve Ends
Sometimes, the area around a root canal tooth can still have nerve tissue, especially if the tooth wasn’t fully sealed or the break extends to nearby healthy areas. Pressure, temperature changes, or food contact can trigger intense pain. That pain likely won’t go away on its own, and it may worsen as the tooth continues to crack or gets infected.
Potential for Tooth Loss
Without quick treatment, a broken root canal tooth may not be salvageable. If infection sets in or the break is severe, you could lose the entire tooth. But if you act fast, your dentist might be able to save it with the right treatment plan.
What To Do If a Root Canal Tooth Breaks
If you’ve just broken your root canal tooth, here are the steps to take right now.
1. Remain Calm
First, don’t panic. Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Is the tooth bleeding? Is it sensitive to air or touch? If the pain is severe, an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen can help you stay comfortable while you prepare to see a dentist.
2. Reach Out to Your Dentist
Time is critical. Contact your dental office immediately. If they’re closed for the weekend, don’t wait; call an emergency dentist in your area. The longer you delay, the higher the risk of complications.
3. Protect Your Mouth
Until you can be seen, do your best to protect the tooth and the surrounding area:
- Avoid chewing on the broken tooth.
- Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Keep the area clean by gently rinsing with warm salt water.
- Brush your teeth as usual, but avoid direct contact with the broken tooth.
These small actions can help prevent further damage or infection while you wait for care.
Broken Root Canal Tooth Treatment Options
Depending on how the tooth broke and how much damage occurred, your dentist may recommend one of several treatment options.
Tooth Extraction
If the break is severe, especially if it goes below the gum line, the tooth may need to be extracted. This is more likely if the tooth has been broken for a while without treatment, allowing infection or structural damage to worsen.
Dental Crown
In many cases, a broken root canal tooth can be restored with a crown. A crown acts like a cap, protecting what’s left of the tooth and restoring function. If you get help quickly, this might be all you need.
Retreatment of the Root Canal
Sometimes, a broken root canal tooth needs to be retreated. This involves cleaning out the canals again and sealing them properly to prevent infection. Retreatment can be a highly effective way to save the tooth and avoid future complications.
Weekend Dental Emergency Care Is Here to Help With Your Broken Root Canal Tooth Emergency
A broken root canal tooth isn’t something to ignore. Whether it’s a sharp edge, swelling, or deep pain, you deserve fast relief, and timely treatment can make all the difference in saving your tooth. If you’re in Salt Lake City and your regular dentist isn’t open on the weekend, don’t wait. Weekend Dental Emergency Care is ready to help on Saturdays and Sundays. We specialize in urgent dental treatment and understand how distressing it is to deal with a broken tooth outside of regular office hours.
Book an appointment with us today and get the care you need, before things get worse. Don’t risk your health or your smile. Let us take care of you, even on the weekend.
