It’s easy to get yourself worked up when you break a tooth. There are many reasons why it could’ve happened, but you should first try your best to stay calm! While it’s important to call your emergency dentist right away, you may be left wondering how to handle a broken tooth. Here is a quick guide on what to do during this situation and what your provider can do to help fix your grin.
How Should I Handle My Broken Tooth?
After you take a breath, assess the situation. If you see that it’s a minor chip, then it may just be a cosmetic issue. However, you may be left with a sharp edge that can be rough on your tongue and inner cheek. You can use dental wax or sugarless gum to cover it until you can visit your dentist. In the meantime, avoid eating with that chomper since you risk damaging it more.
If you notice that it’s a more severe break, then it’s important to protect your tooth. The inner pump may be exposed, and bacteria can more easily cause problems. You should:
- Rinse off the pieces of your broken tooth and place them in a clean, airtight container.
- Take pain relievers and use a cold compress to reduce any discomfort and swelling.
- Gently swish warm salt water to clean out bacteria and reduce inflammation. There may still be tiny pieces of your tooth in your mouth, so take a bit of extra caution not to swallow them.
- Call your emergency dentist and explain the situation. If you see any yellow dentin or red pulp, then let them know.
What Can My Dentist Do to Fix It?
When you get to your appointment, your provider will first work to make you as comfortable as possible. They’ll do an oral examination and figure out what treatment would be best to fix your broken tooth. If it’s a cosmetic issue, then dental bonding or veneers can be good options. They are effective at covering chips while lasting for years.
If these options aren’t right for you, then a crown or root canal may be recommended. The former treatment can restore both the shape and function of your tooth, while the latter can protect it from harmful bacteria that are attacking the inner pulp. In some cases, the damage may be so severe that your tooth cannot be saved, and then an extraction will be needed. However, your dentist will first try to preserve your natural smile!
Although you may have been worried about your broken tooth, remember the steps above! Handle the situation with confidence and call your dentist to get back to your worry-free grin.
About the Author
Dr. Haren Patel earned his first dental degree from Gujarat University and his second from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry. With over 20 years of experience under his belt, he is here to help the Woodstock community get the pristine teeth they deserve. Dr. Patel is here to help you during your dental emergencies, like a broken tooth. He and his team will see you as soon as possible and give you advice until you can visit his practice. If you need urgent dental care, the fastest way to contact his office is by calling (770) 592-7000.