Accidents happen, and sometimes that means a sudden broken tooth. It can leave you feeling uneasy or even in pain. As alarmed as you may feel, don’t panic, as there are steps you can take to handle the situation while you phone your emergency dentist. Before you get caught in an endless loop of online searches, this handy guide will give you the know-how and confidence to handle the situation.
What Should I Do First?
One of the first steps when dealing with a broken tooth is to assess the extent of the damage. Minor breaks, such as small chips or cracks, may only be a cosmetic issue, but they can create a sharp edge. You can cover it with some dental wax or sugarless gum until you can see your dentist. It’s best to see them as soon as possible since you can cause further damage to the tooth if you aren’t careful when eating.
For more severe breaks, it can expose the inside structures of your tooth. With this, bacteria are more likely to infect the pulp inside. As you get ready to call your dentist, you should:
- Find the broken pieces and gently rinse them to remove any dirt and debris. It’s best to put them in a clean, air-tight container to take to the dentist.
- Take over-the-counter medication if you’re in pain. You can even use a cold compress to help prevent swelling.
- Clean your mouth with warm salt water. This will help reduce inflammation and wash away bacteria. There may be small pieces of your tooth left in your mouth, so be sure to avoid swallowing them.
- Tell your dentist about the state of the break and whether you can see any yellow dentin or red, exposed pulp. They will help you decide when you should come in.
How Can My Dentist Fix a Broken Tooth?
When you visit your dentist, there are a few things they can do to restore your tooth. They’ll examine your mouth to ensure the damage hasn’t extended past the surface of your teeth and gums. As they get a clear picture, they may recommend:
- Direct Bonding: For surface-level damage, your dentist may opt for this approach. They will use a tooth-colored composite resin to fill minor chips or cracks.
- Veneers: They are thin yet durable porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of the tooth, hiding any imperfections.
- Dental Crown: For larger breaks, your dentist may recommend covering your tooth with a natural-looking crown that restores the shape and function.
- Root Canal Treatment: Severe breaks can allow bacteria to enter and infect the tooth’s pulp. This treatment can clean out the infection and save the tooth root.
If there are no other options left, your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction if the damage cannot be repaired. Before this point, your dentist will do their best to save your natural tooth before opting for this treatment.
If an accident occurs that breaks your tooth, remember to take a deep breath. Try your best to stay calm, take care of your injury, and reach out to your emergency dentist as soon as possible for help.
About the Practice
At Rauchberg Dental Group, you’ll receive expert care from a team of experienced dentists. With several professionals on staff, we can respond to your dental emergencies quickly, often on the same day! Whether it’s a simple problem or a more complex issue, we’re equipped to handle them with skill and efficiency. To learn more or to get in touch with our team, schedule an appointment or call us at (973) 718-9887.