Emergency Treatment for a Fractured Tooth in Finchley

Book an emergency appointment if you notice any of these signs after a knock or while eating: sharp pain when you bite down that stops when you release the bite; pain when you eat or drink, especially hot or cold items; swelling near the affected tooth; a visible crack on the tooth; a piece of the tooth has completely broken off. Ignoring signs can lead to pulp infection or tooth loss. Our Finchley practice has 3D CBCT scanning to diagnose the fracture accurately, even for cracks not visible to the eye.

We begin with a thorough exam using a dental operating microscope for high magnification and often a 3D CBCT scan to view the tooth root and surrounding bone. This helps identify the crack depth and direction to choose the right plan. We explain findings, review options, and provide a clear cost breakdown.

The plan depends on fracture severity. For minor chips we can use composite bonding in a single visit. For a fractured cusp or larger break, a crown protects the tooth from further splitting. If the crack reaches the pulp, root canal treatment removes the damaged nerve, cleans the canal, and stops infection. This approach has a high success rate of over 85-90 percent for saving the tooth.

After root canal or for a large fracture, a permanent crown is essential. This cap covers the tooth, holds it together, and restores strength and function. The process involves preparing the tooth, taking a digital impression, and fitting a custom crown, usually over two appointments within 2-3 weeks.

Recovery depends on the treatment. Bonding lets you return to normal activities immediately. After root canal or crown prep you may experience tenderness for 2-4 days, which is manageable with ibuprofen. Eat soft foods for the first 48 hours and avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the final crown is fitted. Maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the treated area. Call our practice during office hours (Mon/Wed/Fri 9-5, Tue/Thu 11-7) if you experience severe, increasing pain after day 3, a fever, or significant swelling. For emergencies outside these hours, visit A&E or call 111.

Our goal is to save your natural tooth. If a tooth splits vertically or the fracture extends deep under the gum, it might not be restorable. In these cases, extraction is the only option. After extraction we can discuss replacements to restore bite and smile. A dental implant is the most permanent solution, mimicking a natural tooth root and crown. Another option is a fixed bridge, which uses adjacent teeth to support a false tooth. We provide a balanced view of each option's pros and cons during your consultation.

The cost of treating a fractured tooth at our private Finchley practice depends on the required treatment. A simple bonding repair costs around £150-£250, while a crown starts from £600. If root canal is needed, the fee reflects the advanced skill and technology involved, starting from £600. Your detailed treatment plan will include a full breakdown with no hidden fees. We are a private practice and do not offer NHS services, but we accept insurance from Denplan, Cigna, and Max Bupa. Please contact us to discuss coverage.

To make an informed choice about care either with us or another practice in North London, consider these questions: - How deep is the fracture and what is the long term prognosis for the tooth? - Do you use a dental microscope to ensure all parts of the crack are visible? - What is the success rate for the treatment you recommend? - Is a crown necessary, and how long until it is fitted? - What is the total cost including consultation, x rays, and final restoration? - What signs of failure should I watch for in the future?