Dr. Shiba and her staff want to ensure you that your health is our highest priority. Our commitment to your safety is the foundation of our care.
Check out our recent COVID-19 Protocols.

How a Pin Can Help Fix a Broken Tooth

Posted on 10/15/2025 by Nancy Shiba DDS

Two rows of tooth models with a single tooth missing, emphasizing the concept of tooth loss.

Imagine biting into a crisp apple and feeling a sharp pain in your tooth. You look in the mirror and see a piece of your tooth is missing. Now what? Don't worry, there's no need to panic. A broken tooth is a common dental problem that can be easily treated by restoration dentistry.

A broken tooth can be caused by various things, such as biting down on hard foods, falling, or getting hit in the mouth. Regardless of the cause, it's essential to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage and infection.

During your appointment, your dentist will examine the broken tooth and determine the best course of treatment. If the break is minor, it may be possible to simply smooth the edges of the tooth and seal it with a filling. However, if the break is more severe, a pin may be needed to help restore the tooth's strength and function.

A dental pin is a small, metal post that is inserted into the root canal of the tooth. The pin helps to anchor a filling or crown, which will rebuild the missing part of the tooth. The process of placing a pin is relatively simple and can usually be completed in one appointment.

Here's a breakdown of the process:

1~	Anesthesia: Your dentist will numb the area around the tooth to ensure you're comfortable during the procedure.
2~	Cleaning: Your dentist will remove any decay or debris from the broken tooth and prepare it for the pin.
3~	Placement: The pin is inserted into the root canal and secured with a special adhesive.
4~	Restoration: Once the pin is in place, your dentist will build up the missing part of the tooth with a filling or crown.

After the procedure, you may experience some minor soreness, but this should subside within a few days. Your dentist will provide you with instructions on how to care for your tooth and how to prevent future breaks.

Benefits of Using a Pin to Fix a Broken Tooth

There are many benefits to using a pin to fix a broken tooth, including:

•	Preserving the natural tooth: A pin helps to preserve the natural tooth structure, which is preferable to extracting the tooth and getting an implant.
•	Cost-effective: Pins are a relatively cost-effective way to restore a broken tooth, compared to other options like crowns or implants.
•	Durable: Pins are made from strong, durable materials that can withstand the forces of chewing.
•	Long-lasting: With proper care, a pin-retained restoration can last for many years.

Taking Care of Your Restored Tooth

Once your broken tooth is restored with a pin, it's important to take good care of it to prevent further damage. Here are some tips:

•	Brush and floss regularly: This will help remove plaque and bacteria that can contribute to tooth decay and breakage.
•	Avoid biting down on hard foods: This could put stress on the pin and cause it to break.
•	Wear a mouthguard: If you play sports or participate in other activities that could put your teeth at risk, wear a mouthguard to protect them.
•	See your dentist regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health and catching any potential problems early.

Conclusion

A broken tooth can be a stressful experience, but with modern restorative dentistry techniques, it's possible to repair the tooth and restore its function. If you have a broken tooth, don't hesitate to see your dentist. They will be able to assess the damage and recommend the best course of treatment for you.

Our Office
In San Jose

Nancy Shiba, DDS

125 N Jackson Ave, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95116-1903

Phone

(669) 306-7669

Hours

Mon: 9AM–6PM
Tue: by appointment
Wed: 9AM–6PM
Thur: 9AM–3PM
Friday: 8AM–5PM
Sat & Sun: Closed

New Patient Forms

Request Appointment

Membership Programs

Dental Blog • Nancy Shiba, DDS
Nancy Shiba, DDS, 125 N Jackson Ave, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95116-1914 ^ (669) 306-7669 ^ nancyshibadds.com ^ 11/11/2025 ^ Related Terms: dentist san jose ca ^