No matter how well you keep up with your oral health, your chances of experiencing a dental emergency are never zero. You may accidentally fall or bite into a hard food that ends up breaking one of your teeth. However, while this situation can be worrying, you should act quickly to protect your smile from further harm. Here’s a guide on how to handle a broken tooth and what your emergency dentist can do to help.
What Should I Do If I Broke My Tooth?
You should first take a breath and try to calm down if you’re worked up. It’s easy to get worried, but a level head can make this situation easier to control. Afterward, take note of how bad the damage is. If it’s minor, then it might be a cosmetic problem only. While your tooth may not be in any immediate harm, you should cover it as it can have a sharp edge that can cut your tongue or cheek. You can use dental wax or sugarless gum for the time being.
If the break is more severe, then the tooth’s inner pulp may be exposed. If so, follow these steps:
- Find the piece that broke off and put it in an airtight, clean container.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This will remove bacteria and debris while also flushing out any remnants of the dental structure left behind.
- Use a cold pack or pain relievers to get rid of any discomfort you’re feeling.
- Call your dentist as soon as possible. Be sure to let them know if you see yellow dentin or red pulp. They will also be able to give you more advice about your unique situation.
How Can My Dentist Fix My Broken Tooth?
Many providers try to see their patients the same day of their dental emergency, so you might be penciled into the schedule. Once you get to the office, you will have an oral assessment taken and X-rays to see the extent of the damage. Based on what they find, there are several options that may be available, such as:
- Tooth-colored fillings or cosmetic bonding are often recommended if the break is small or an aesthetic problem.
- A dental crown may be best if the issue is more severe, as this is like a cap that restores both the look and function of the structure.
- A root canal can save your tooth if bacteria have already reached or infected the inner pulp. Removing the affected tissue can help you save your smile from any more harm.
- An extraction is needed in rare cases, but only when the break renders the structure unsalvageable. Your dentist will exhaust all other routes before this one.
In the end, a broken tooth can be stressful, but your dentist is here to help you handle it. By taking charge of the situation and getting it handled right away, you can get the prompt treatment you need to bring back your confident smile.
About the Practice
At Seaside Dental of New Smyrna Beach, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Tyler Flynn and Dr. Thinh Tran. We are dedicated to helping the local community get their best grin, especially if they are dealing with a dental emergency. By offering same-day, after-hours, and weekend urgent visits, we can give you the relief you deserve right away. If you have a broken tooth, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling our office at (386) 428-1270.