Cracking a tooth can be a real shocker.
One minute, you’re enjoying your favourite snack, and the next, you’re dealing with a dental disaster!
So, what should you do when you have a broken tooth?
Let’s take a look at the steps you need to take right away and the long-term solutions available to restore your smile.
Immediate Steps to Take When You Break a Tooth
First things first: stay calm. A broken tooth might be alarming, but quick action can make a big difference.
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the area. If there’s any bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the site and hold it there until the bleeding stops. If you experience swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce it.
Next, try to locate any pieces of the broken tooth. If you find any, keep them in a clean container and cover them with milk or your saliva. This might sound a bit odd, but these fluids help keep the tooth fragments moist and may increase the chances of your dentist being able to repair the tooth.
Managing Pain and Discomfort
A broken tooth can be painful, especially if the damage has exposed the inner layers of the tooth.
To manage this pain, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers, but avoid aspirin as it can thin your blood and make bleeding worse.
If the tooth is sharp or jagged, cover it with a piece of sugarless gum or dental wax to protect your tongue and cheek from cuts.
Avoid eating or drinking anything too hot, cold, or sugary as this can aggravate the pain. Stick to soft foods and try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid putting pressure on the broken tooth.
Long-Term Solutions for a Broken Tooth
Once you’ve managed the immediate concerns, it’s time to consider long-term solutions.
Visiting your dentist as soon as possible is crucial. They will examine the damage and discuss the best treatment options based on the severity of the break.
For minor chips, dental bonding might be all you need. This procedure involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the affected area, which is then shaped and polished to match the rest of your tooth. It’s a quick fix that can restore your smile in a single visit.
If the break is more serious and involves damage to the enamel and dentin, a dental crown might be necessary. Crowns cover the entire visible portion of the tooth, providing protection and restoring its appearance. There are even one-visit crowns available, which can be crafted and placed in just a single appointment.
For breaks that expose the pulp or root of the tooth, more intensive treatment like a root canal may be required. This procedure involves removing the damaged pulp, cleaning the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent infection. A crown is usually placed on top to provide additional strength and protection.
Preventing Future Tooth Breaks
Prevention is always better than cure.
To reduce the risk of breaking a tooth in the future, avoid biting down on hard objects like ice, pens, or your fingernails.
If you play contact sports, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth.
Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly also helps keep your teeth strong and healthy, making them less susceptible to damage.
Take Action for a Healthier Smile!
Dealing with a broken tooth can be stressful, but knowing what to do can make the situation more manageable.
If you ever find yourself in this predicament, remember the immediate steps to take and the long-term solutions available to you.
At Smile To Go, we’re here to help you navigate dental emergencies and provide top-notch care to restore your smile.
Contact us today to book an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile!