Also known as: fractured tooth, broken baby tooth, split tooth, missing piece of tooth, large tooth fracture, broken tooth after injury

A broken tooth in children usually means a larger portion of the tooth has been damaged or lost, often after a fall, collision, or biting something hard. It may look obvious right away, with a missing corner, a jagged edge, or a tooth that appears shorter or split. Some children complain of immediate pain, while others mainly notice sensitivity, bleeding around the tooth, or discomfort when chewing.

Because a broken tooth often exposes deeper layers of the tooth, the risk of pain, infection, and further damage is higher than with a small chip alone. In some cases, the break affects only the outer enamel, but in others it can reach the dentin or pulp, where the nerve and blood supply are located. Prompt evaluation helps determine how deep the injury is and whether the tooth can be smoothed, repaired, protected, or treated more urgently.

Possible Causes of a Broken Tooth

A broken tooth is commonly associated with:

  • Dental injury or direct trauma – A fall, sports injury, or blow to the mouth can break a tooth suddenly, especially if the impact lands on the front teeth or a tooth already under stress.

  • Biting hard foods or objects – Chewing ice, hard candy, popcorn kernels, or other hard objects can cause part of the tooth to snap or break away during normal biting.

  • Untreated decay or weakened tooth structure – Teeth that have been weakened by cavities, enamel defects, or earlier damage are more likely to break when they no longer have enough strong tooth structure left.

  • A crack or chip that spreads – What starts as a small crack or chip can worsen over time, eventually leading to a larger break when the tooth is used for chewing.

  • Grinding, clenching, or heavy bite pressure – Repeated pressure on an already vulnerable tooth can weaken it further and make a larger fracture more likely.

Treatments for a Broken Tooth

Depending on the severity and location of the crack, treatment may include:

  • Fillings – For a smaller broken area, a filling may be used to rebuild missing tooth structure, smooth sharp edges, and protect exposed areas that feel sensitive.
  • Crowns – A crown can cover and protect a more seriously broken tooth, restoring strength and reducing the chance of additional fracture during chewing.
  • Baby Root Canals (Pulpotomy, aka Pulp Therapy) – If the break reaches the inner pulp or leaves the nerve badly inflamed, pulp therapy may be needed to remove damaged tissue and keep the baby tooth comfortable and functional.
  • Emergency Dentistry – When a tooth breaks after an injury or causes significant pain or bleeding, emergency dental care can help assess the damage quickly and determine the safest next step.

When to See a Dentist

Consider scheduling an appointment if your child:

  • Has a large visible piece of tooth missing or a jagged edge
  • Complains of pain, sensitivity, or trouble chewing after the tooth breaks
  • Has bleeding around the tooth after a fall or mouth injury
  • Develops swelling, worsening pain, or signs of infection
  • Breaks a tooth during sports, an accident, or while biting something hard

Related Symptoms

Concerned About a Broken Tooth?

Broken tooth is often a sign that something needs attention. We’d love to evaluate your child’s symptoms and make their visit comfortable, positive, and stress-free. Schedule an appointment today and get the answers you need.