What does “Reattachment of a broken tooth piece” mean?
Tooth reattachment can refer to restoring a tooth by bonding a broken piece of the natural tooth back onto what remains. Whether this is possible depends on the condition of the fragment, the extent of the fracture and any injury to the pulp.
The fragment and remaining tooth are assessed together
When part of the crown breaks, the original fragment may be assessed for reuse. If it cannot be used, a tooth-coloured filling or, depending on the damage, a crown may be considered. The assessment also looks for injuries to neighbouring teeth and supporting tissues beyond the visible fracture.
Pulp injury needs a separate assessment
Reattachment mainly restores the shape of the tooth. If the pulp is exposed or injured, additional treatment such as vital pulp therapy or root canal treatment may be needed, depending on pulp condition and root development. Bonding the piece back does not end the trauma assessment or the need for follow-up.
Bring the fragment without letting it dry out
If you find the natural tooth fragment, you can bring it to the dentist in milk or in a container of your own saliva. Use a container rather than carrying the piece in your mouth, and do not glue it back yourself. After an injury, the remaining tooth needs prompt assessment as well as the fragment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any broken piece be put back exactly as it was?
Not always. The condition and fit of the fragment and damage to the remaining tooth and pulp determine whether reattachment, a filling or another restoration is appropriate.
Is this the same as putting back a whole tooth that has been knocked out?
No. A completely knocked-out tooth is a different injury requiring its own emergency care and assessment for replantation. It should not be treated as the broken-fragment situation described here.
Questions about restoring a fractured tooth
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Preservation of natural teeth
Can this fragment be reused?
Explanation and evidenceCompare reattachment with other ways to restore the tooth based on the condition of the fragment and what remains.
American Association of Endodontists · Traumatic dental injuries and fragment reattachment - A choice suited to your condition
Is there an injury to the pulp or nearby teeth?
Explanation and evidenceClarify any pulp treatment and follow-up needed in addition to restoring the tooth’s appearance.
International Association of Dental Traumatology · Guidelines for fractures and luxations of permanent teeth
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- American Association of Endodontists · Traumatic dental injuries and fragment reattachmentaae.org (opens in a new tab)
- NHS · Chipped, broken or cracked teethnhs.uk (opens in a new tab)
- International Association of Dental Traumatology · Guidelines for fractures and luxations of permanent teethaapd.org (opens in a new tab)
