A broken tooth can happen unexpectedly, whether from biting down on something hard, a sports injury, a fall, or untreated tooth decay. While some fractures may seem minor, any damage to a tooth should be taken seriously. Prompt action can help relieve discomfort, prevent further damage, and improve the chances of saving the tooth.
If you break a tooth, knowing what to do can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Assess the Situation
The first step is to determine the extent of the damage. Some broken teeth involve only a small chip in the enamel, while others may result in larger fractures, significant pain, or even expose the inner layers of the tooth.
Common symptoms of a broken tooth include:
- Sharp or rough edges.
- Tooth sensitivity.
- Pain when chewing.
- Swelling around the tooth.
- Visible cracks or missing pieces.
If the break is severe, involves bleeding, or causes intense pain, contact your dentist immediately.
Rinse Your Mouth
Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to remove any debris and keep the area clean. If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a piece of clean gauze until it stops.
If swelling develops, placing a cold compress on the outside of the face near the affected area can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Protect the Tooth
If possible, save any broken pieces of the tooth and bring them to your dental appointment. In some cases, your dentist may be able to use the fragment during treatment.
To protect the damaged tooth before you can be seen, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. If the broken edge is sharp and irritating your tongue or cheek, dental wax from a pharmacy may help cover the area temporarily.
Avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, or extremely hot and cold foods that could worsen sensitivity or cause additional damage.
Contact Your Dentist Promptly
Even if the tooth doesn’t hurt, it’s important to schedule a dental evaluation as soon as possible. Small cracks can grow larger over time, and untreated damage may eventually lead to infection or tooth loss.
Depending on the severity of the fracture, treatment options may include:
- Dental bonding.
- Tooth-colored fillings.
- Dental crowns.
- Root canal therapy.
- Tooth extraction in severe cases.
Early treatment often allows for more conservative and effective solutions.
A broken tooth is more than a cosmetic concern; it can affect your oral health and comfort. By rinsing your mouth, protecting the tooth, and seeking prompt dental care, you can minimize complications and improve the likelihood of a successful repair. If you experience a broken tooth, contacting your dentist as soon as possible is the best way to protect your smile and restore your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Avni Dhaliwal has been practicing dentistry for more than 15 years. She earned her dental degree from UNC – Chapel Hill. After moving to the Orlando area, she completed an Academy of General Dentistry Fellowship, which entailed 500 hours of continuing education as well as a rigorous exam. She also has training in dealing with TMJ issues and sleep apnea. Today, Dr. Dhaliwal is a member of the American Dental Association and the Florida Dental Association, among other professional organizations. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, book online or call our Maitland office at (407) 335-4600.
