Appointment Request
A broken tooth can happen in an instant, whether you bite into something hard, experience a fall, or have an accident during sports. The shock and discomfort of this dental emergency might leave you feeling uncertain about what to do next. Taking prompt, well-informed action helps minimize damage and supports your oral health while you seek professional care. Here is some practical guidance on how to handle a broken tooth:
Contact an Emergency Dentist
Professional care is crucial for a broken tooth. Right away, call a trusted local emergency dentist and provide details about the injury, including how the tooth broke and any visible damage such as exposed layers or bleeding. The dental office may offer advice on at-home care and schedule you for an urgent appointment. Depending on the severity of the damage, they might even arrange to see you on the same day that you call.
Take Care of the Damaged Tooth
Here are some things you can do to care for your tooth and reduce the risk of additional damage:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to remove debris and keep the area clean.
- Apply a cold compress to your cheek for 15 – 20 minutes to help reduce swelling.
- Retrieve and save any broken pieces of the tooth if possible. Place them in a small container with a lid and bring them to your dental appointment.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything extremely hot or cold, which could aggravate sensitivity.
- Refrain from chewing or biting with the affected tooth.
- Avoid touching or playing with the tooth unnecessarily.
- Cover any sharp or rough edges with orthodontic wax or sugar-free chewing gum to shield your tongue and cheeks.
Manage Discomfort
A broken tooth can be painful! To keep any discomfort under control, you can implement these measures:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen according to package instructions.
- Periodically rinse your mouth with warm salt water to soothe inflammation and help fight bacteria.
- Continue your oral hygiene routine, but be very gentle and careful around the broken tooth.
How Your Dentist Can Help
During your emergency appointment, your dentist will examine the tooth and recommend appropriate treatment. Minor fractures may be repaired with dental bonding to restore the tooth’s shape and appearance. If the damage extends into the tooth’s interior, root canal therapy followed by a crown might be necessary. In cases where repair is not possible, extraction may be recommended, followed by a discussion of tooth replacement options.
A broken tooth can happen to anyone! Instead of panicking, take practical action to resolve the situation and get your oral health back on track.
Meet the Practice
At Ocean Oaks Dental Group of Vero Beach, we offer comprehensive services, including emergency care. In fact, we are often able to welcome urgent cases on a same-day basis. If you have a broken tooth or another troubling oral health problem, contact us right away at 772-569-4424.