Uh oh — you’ve just broken a tooth! Whether it happened while biting into something hard or from an unexpected fall, a broken tooth can be both painful and stressful. The good news is that your dentist can often repair the damage and restore your smile with the right treatment. Knowing what to do in the moments after the break occurs can make a big difference in protecting your tooth and preventing further complications.
What to Do Right After Breaking a Tooth
If you break a tooth, the first thing to remember is to stay calm. Not every break is an emergency, but it’s always important to have a dentist evaluate the damage as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take while waiting for your appointment:
- Rinse your mouth: Gently rinse with warm water to clear away any debris. If bleeding occurs, apply light pressure with a piece of gauze.
- Save any pieces: If part of your tooth has broken off, try to locate and save the fragment. Place it in milk or saline solution to keep it moist until your dentist can assess it.
- Reduce swelling: Apply a cold compress to your cheek to minimize pain and swelling.
- Avoid chewing on that side: Stick to soft foods and avoid biting down on the affected area until your dentist can repair it.
If the tooth is severely broken or causing intense pain, it’s best to contact your dentist immediately. According to Colgate, severe breaks that expose the tooth’s inner layer or nerve require prompt professional care to prevent infection or further damage.
Common Causes of Broken Teeth
Teeth can break for many reasons. The most common causes include:
- Biting down on hard foods or objects, such as ice or popcorn kernels
- Injuries from sports or accidents
- Untreated cavities that weaken the tooth’s structure
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) that wears down enamel over time
- Old fillings or restorations that have become loose or damaged
Even if a crack or chip seems minor, it’s important to have it examined. What looks like a small break on the surface could extend deeper into the tooth, potentially leading to pain, infection, or the need for more extensive treatment later.
How Your Dentist Can Repair a Broken Tooth
The right treatment depends on the severity and location of the break. Minor chips may only need a quick polish or bonding procedure, while deeper cracks might require more involved care. Some common options include:
- Dental bonding or filling: Ideal for small chips or cracks. A tooth-colored resin is applied to restore shape and function.
- Dental crown: For larger breaks, a crown covers and protects the remaining tooth structure.
- Root canal therapy: If the nerve or pulp is exposed, a root canal may be needed before the tooth can be restored.
- Extraction and replacement: In cases where the tooth is too damaged to save, your dentist may recommend replacing it with an implant or bridge.
Dentists emphasize that quick action often determines whether a tooth can be saved. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances for a strong, lasting repair.
Accidents happen—but knowing how to handle a broken tooth can help you protect your smile and avoid further pain or damage.
About the Practice
Thornville Dental provides compassionate and comprehensive emergency dental care for patients in need of immediate treatment. Dr. Chase Smith is dedicated to restoring comfort and function to every smile. Our practice offers same-day appointments and a full range of restorative services to repair broken or damaged teeth.
Call us at (740) 246-5286 or request an appointment online.