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Whether you bit into a hard candy or had an accident that left you with a broken tooth, it’s easy to get worried about it. The first thing you should try to do is to calm down. This can help keep you clear-headed and act fast to preserve your oral health. While you get ready to call your emergency dentist, here is a quick guide on how to handle a broken tooth and how it may be fixed.
What Should I Do About My Broken Tooth?
Once you take a breath, it’s now time to look at your tooth. If it’s just a minor break, then it might be a cosmetic issue only. There is a chance that it became sharp, so cover it with dental wax or sugarless gum. That way, you don’t accidentally cut your cheek or tongue, and you should eat on the other side of your mouth to avoid any further damage.
A more severe break calls for different guidelines. It’s important to protect your tooth and the inner pulp, so here is what to do:
- Find the broken piece and rinse it off, then place it into a clean container.
- Take over-the-counter medication and use an ice pack to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and wash away harmful bacteria. Remnants of your tooth may still be present, so be sure not to swallow them.
- Call your emergency dentist and let them know if you see red pulp or yellow dentin.
How Can My Dentist Fix My Broken Tooth?
When it’s time for your appointment, your provider will first take steps to relieve any discomfort you feel. Once they do, then you’ll get an oral examination and X-rays to see the extent of the damage. As your dentist gets a good idea, they may recommend:
- Cosmetic bonding to repair minor chips that aren’t threatening your oral health.
- A dental crown is used to restore the function and appearance of the tooth.
- If bacteria reach the inner pulp, then you may need a root canal to preserve as much of your natural dental structure as possible.
In some scenarios, the break may be so severe that your tooth can’t be saved. Having it extracted can prevent any further harm to your smile, but efforts will be made to salvage it first.
Dealing with a broken tooth can be stressful, but your dentist is here to get you relief. Follow the simple guide above and get back to a problem-free smile.
About the Author
Dr. Noah Rosen earned his dental degree from the University of Florida. He understands how a dental emergency can come out of nowhere, so he is proud to offer same-day appointments. Once you are in Dr. Rosen’s chair, he comes up with a treatment plan that renews your grin and helps you feel more confident. If you had broken a tooth, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling his office at (773) 248-6140.