It’s not the end of the world if you break a tooth, but it’s certainly an alarming event when it happens! Aside from being shock-inducing, dental damage can also put your pearly white at an increased risk for developing cavities and gum disease, and dentists consider this worthy of emergency status. Your dental team will be able to get you on the books for urgent care, but in the meantime, how do you handle your broken tooth?
Don’t worry, the process isn’t as complicated as you might think. Keep reading for four simple steps.
Step 1: Secure The Broken Fragments
If possible, locate the broken fragments of your damaged tooth. Your dentist may be able to reattach them to your smile, so it’s worth taking some time to search the area. If you’re able to find them, put them in a dry, secure container for safe keeping – and don’t forget to bring the container to your appointment!
Step 2: Remove Dirt and Debris with Water
Once that’s taken care of, rinse your mouth with warm water. This will remove any dirt, debris, and blood that could be cluttering your mouth. It might also be a good idea to mix a little bit of salt into the water. Salt kills bacteria, and you’ll want to keep germs far away from your vulnerable tooth.
Step 3: Treat Any Oral or Facial Injuries
Now that you can see your mouth more clearly, it’s time to inspect yourself for injuries. For cuts that might still be bleeding, press a damp cloth to the area and apply pressure. If the bleeding persists for more than 10 minutes, drive to the nearest ER! Otherwise, take an OTC pain reliever for discomfort and use a cold compress to numb the area when necessary.
Step 4: Call Your Emergency Dentist
Finally, you can call your emergency dentist! They’ll want to know as much as possible about your situation so they can offer first aid guidance and arrange an appointment, so try to describe the breakage and your symptoms in detail. Then simply go their office as scheduled, sit through an oral exam, and talk with your dentist about your treatment options. They’ll take care of the rest!
Nobody ever wants to break a tooth. But if you do, follow these four steps and take a deep breath. Your dental team will quickly get to work and restore your smile.
About the Practice
Dr. Matthew McKissock and Dr. Rupal Thakkar are both highly experienced dentists who prioritize patient comfort. If you’ve broken your tooth and need emergency dental care, they’ll see you as soon as possible and can provide dental sedation to help calm your nerves and alleviate discomfort. To make a prompt appointment, call Dr. McKissock and Dr. Thakkar’s office at (407) 258-1330.