Broken Tooth and Infection
A broken tooth might seem like a purely mechanical problem, but the real danger often lies deeper. Once a tooth cracks or fractures, its internal structure is exposed to bacteria that can cause infection. What begins as mild sensitivity or irritation can escalate into swelling, abscesses, and even bone or tissue loss if untreated.
How Infection Starts
When a tooth breaks, the hard outer enamel layer is compromised. This enamel is what normally protects the softer inner layers from bacteria. The pulp contains blood vessels and nerves that keep the tooth alive. Once this tissue is exposed, bacteria can enter and multiply. As they spread, inflammation develops inside the tooth, putting pressure on the nerve and causing pain. If the infection is not addressed quickly, it can move beyond the tooth into the surrounding bone and gum tissue.
Even a small break can allow bacteria to enter through microcracks. That’s why minor chips shouldn’t be ignored, especially if accompanied by lingering discomfort, swelling, or bad taste in the mouth, as these are often early warning signs of infection brewing beneath the surface.
Signs You Might Have an Infection
Not every broken tooth leads to infection, but certain symptoms should raise concern. Persistent or throbbing pain is the most common, especially when biting or chewing. Swelling in the gums, jaw, or face can also occur, sometimes accompanied by redness or warmth around the affected area. Fever, fatigue, and a general feeling of being unwell are other signs that bacteria may have spread beyond the tooth itself.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek dental care immediately. Infections don’t heal on their own. In fact, they tend to worsen, often causing irreversible damage to the surrounding bone or tissue.
How Dentists Treat an Infected Broken Tooth
The first step in treating an infection from a broken tooth is diagnosis. Your dentist may perform a visual exam, take X-rays, or use sensitivity tests to determine how far the infection has spread. If the pulp is infected but the tooth structure is still salvageable, a root canal is often the recommended treatment. During this procedure, the infected tissue is removed, the inside of the tooth is disinfected, and the canal is sealed to prevent further contamination. Afterward, a crown is typically placed to restore function and protect the remaining structure.
If the infection is extensive and the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be necessary. This is followed by cleaning the socket to remove any remaining bacteria. Once the area heals, options like implants or bridges can be considered to restore the missing tooth.
In cases where the infection has spread beyond the tooth, antibiotics may be prescribed to control the bacteria and reduce inflammation. However, medication alone cannot resolve the problem permanently—it only buys time until proper dental treatment is performed.
A broken tooth and infection often go hand in hand, especially when treatment is delayed. What starts as a small problem can quickly become a serious one, with consequences that affect more than just your mouth. Acting quickly not only relieves pain but also protects your long-term oral health. In dentistry, time is often the difference between saving a tooth and losing it—so when in doubt, get it checked.