Accidents happen, and a broken front tooth in a child can be a stressful experience for both parent and child. Here, as a pediatric dentist, I want to assure you and provide some guidance on what to do if your 7-year-old kid broke her permanent front tooth in half.

Will the Tooth Grow Back?

Unfortunately, permanent teeth will not grow back like baby teeth. However, depending on the severity of the break and the extent of the damage, there are several options to restore the tooth and achieve a good cosmetic outcome.

What to Do Immediately

Seek professional help: The most important step is to schedule an emergency appointment with your pediatric dentist as soon as possible. Time is crucial for preserving the tooth and maximizing treatment options.
Find the broken piece (if possible): If you can locate the broken piece of the tooth, keep it safe in a container of milk or saliva. Sometimes, depending on the size and condition of the fragment, the dentist may be able to reattach it.

Treatment Options

The best course of treatment will depend on the specific situation, including the size and location of the fracture, the health of the tooth pulp (the inner nerve and blood vessel tissue), and the overall development of your daughter’s teeth. Here are some possibilities:

Dental Bonding: This is a conservative approach for minor fractures. A tooth-colored resin material is applied to rebuild the missing tooth structure and restore its shape. Bonding is a quick and relatively painless procedure, ideal for small chips or cracks.
Dental Crowns: For more severe breaks where a larger portion of the tooth is missing, a crown may be recommended. Crowns are custom-made caps that fit over the remaining tooth structure, providing strength, protection, and a natural appearance. Pediatric dentists often use crowns made of durable materials like stainless steel or zirconia, which can withstand the wear and tear of childhood activities.
Pulpectomy: If the fracture exposes the tooth pulp, a pulpectomy might be necessary. This procedure involves removing the damaged pulp tissue and cleaning the inside of the tooth to prevent infection. The dentist will then seal the tooth and often follow it with a crown for additional protection.

A broken front tooth can understandably cause cosmetic concerns, especially for a young child. We understand the importance of a confident smile. During your appointment, discuss your concerns with your dentist. They can explain the available treatment options and their impact on the overall appearance of your daughter’s smile.

Additional Tips

Pain Management: After the initial injury, you can give your daughter age-appropriate over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for discomfort.
Protecting the Tooth: If the break is significant, encourage your daughter to avoid chewing hard foods on the affected side until she sees the dentist.
Reassurance: Talk to your daughter and explain the situation calmly. Let her know that the dentist will fix her tooth and help her smile confidently again.

By taking prompt action and seeking professional dental care, you can help your daughter overcome this dental mishap and restore a healthy, beautiful smile. Remember, pediatric dentists are experienced in treating children of all ages and can make the process as comfortable as possible.