What to Do If You Break a Tooth: Emergency Dentist Guide
A broken tooth can occur unexpectedly and may result from an accident, sporting injury, biting hard foods, or underlying dental conditions. Depending on the extent of the damage, a broken tooth may cause discomfort, sensitivity, or difficulty eating and speaking.
Knowing what steps to take after breaking a tooth can help you manage the situation until you are able to see a dentist.
Is a Broken Tooth a Dental Emergency?
Not all broken teeth require immediate emergency treatment. However, prompt dental assessment is recommended to determine the extent of the damage and identify appropriate treatment options.
You should consult with a dentist as soon as possible if you experience:
- Significant pain or discomfort
- Bleeding that does not stop
- Swelling around the affected area
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Sharp tooth edges causing irritation
- A large portion of the tooth is breaking away
A dental examination may help determine the most appropriate course of action.
What Should You Do Immediately After Breaking a Tooth?
Breaking a tooth can be a painful experience, and knowing what to do in the moment can help you stay calm and protect your oral health. The steps you take immediately after the injury can reduce discomfort and support a safer outcome. The following steps outline measures you can take immediately after breaking a tooth before you are able to see a dentist.
- Stay Calm
A broken tooth can be concerning, but remaining calm will help you assess the situation and take appropriate steps.
- Rinse Your Mouth
Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to help remove any debris and keep the area clean.
- Locate Any Broken Pieces
If possible, collect any broken pieces of the tooth and store them safely. Bring them with you to your dental appointment, as your dentist may wish to examine them.
- Try to Control Any Bleeding
If bleeding is present, apply gentle pressure using a clean piece of gauze or cloth.
- Apply a Cold Compress
If there is swelling, applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek may help reduce discomfort and inflammation.
- Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side
Until your tooth has been assessed, try to avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth.
Common Causes of Broken Teeth
Teeth can break for a variety of reasons, including:
- Accidents and falls
- Sporting injuries
- Biting hard foods or objects
- Tooth decay
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Existing large fillings or restorations
- Trauma to the mouth or jaw
Understanding the cause can help your dentist recommend appropriate treatment and preventive measures.
What Types of Tooth Damage Can Occur?
Tooth injuries can vary in severity, ranging from minor surface cracks to more significant structural damage. Understanding the different types of tooth damage can help you recognise the seriousness of an injury and the importance of seeking timely dental assessment.
- Chipped Tooth
A small piece of enamel may break away from the tooth. Some chips may be minor, while others may require treatment depending on their size and location.
- Cracked Tooth
A crack can extend through different layers of the tooth and may not always be visible without examination.
- Fractured Tooth
A larger break may affect the tooth’s structure and require restorative treatment.
- Split Tooth
In some cases, a tooth may split into separate sections. This type of damage requires prompt professional assessment.
What Treatment Options May Be Available?
Treatment recommendations depend on the location and severity of the damage, as well as the overall health of the tooth.
Potential treatment options may include:
Tooth-coloured materials may be used to repair minor chips or small fractures.
A crown may be recommended when a larger portion of the tooth has been damaged.
If damage extends to the inner part of the tooth, root canal treatment may be considered to address the affected tissue.
In some situations, a damaged tooth may not be suitable for restoration and alternative treatment options may be discussed.
Your dentist will recommend treatment based on your individual circumstances.
Can a Broken Tooth Heal on Its Own?
Unlike some other tissues in the body, teeth do not regenerate or repair themselves. Even if a broken tooth is not causing significant discomfort, it is important to have it assessed to determine whether treatment is required.
How Can You Help Reduce the Risk of Breaking a Tooth?
While not all dental injuries can be prevented, the following measures may help reduce risk:
- Wearing a mouthguard during contact sports
- Avoiding chewing hard objects such as ice or pens
- Maintaining regular dental check-ups
- Addressing teeth grinding where appropriate
- Seeking treatment for tooth decay or weakened teeth
When Should You Contact a Dentist?
If you break a tooth, it is advisable to contact a dentist as soon as possible. A timely assessment allows the dentist to evaluate the extent of the damage and discuss suitable treatment options.
Even minor chips or cracks can benefit from professional assessment to help prevent further complications.
Emergency Dental Care at Hume Dental Hub
At Hume Dental Hub, we provide dental assessments for a wide range of oral health concerns, including broken, chipped, and damaged teeth.
If you have experienced a dental injury or are concerned about a damaged tooth, our team can assess your situation and discuss appropriate treatment options based on your individual needs.
FAQs
Not all broken teeth require emergency treatment. However, a dental assessment is recommended to determine the extent of the damage and identify appropriate treatment options.
Rinse your mouth with warm water, avoid chewing on the affected side, and contact a dentist when possible to arrange an assessment.
Treatment options depend on the size and location of the chip. Your dentist can assess the tooth and discuss available treatment options.
The effects of an untreated broken tooth vary depending on the extent of the damage. A dental assessment can help determine whether treatment is recommended.
It is generally advisable to arrange a dental assessment as soon as practical after the injury to evaluate the condition of the tooth.