What to Do If You Break Your Tooth: 5 Steps to Take

Breaking a tooth can be a frightening and painful experience, but it's important to stay calm and take action quickly. In this blog post, we will discuss five steps to take if you break a tooth, including how to manage pain, prevent further damage, and get the necessary dental treatment. 

Rinse Your Mouth and Tooth

The first step to take if you break a tooth is to rinse your mouth with warm water. This will help to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection. You should also carefully rinse the broken tooth itself, being careful not to touch the root. If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure to help stop it. Avoid rinsing too aggressively or using mouthwash, as this can irritate the broken tooth further.

Manage Pain and Swelling

Breaking a tooth can be extremely painful, so it's important to manage your pain and swelling as best as you can. You can take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen, to help reduce pain and inflammation. Applying a cold pack to the outside of your cheek near the broken tooth can also help to reduce swelling. If you are experiencing severe pain or swelling, contact your dentist as soon as possible for further advice.

Save the Tooth Fragment (If Possible)

If you can locate the broken fragment of your tooth, it's important to save it. Place the fragment in a clean container with milk or your own saliva to help preserve it. Your dentist may be able to reattach the fragment, depending on the severity of the break. If you are unable to find the fragment, don't worry, your dentist will still be able to provide treatment options for your broken tooth.

Protect the Broken Tooth

To prevent further damage to your broken tooth, it's important to protect it until you can see a dentist. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the broken tooth, and try to eat soft foods that won't put too much pressure on the tooth. You can also cover the broken tooth with dental wax or sugarless gum to help protect it from further damage. Make sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to discuss treatment options.

See a Dentist Immediately

Regardless of the severity of the break, it's crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible after breaking a tooth. Your dentist will be able to assess the damage, provide treatment options, and help to repair your broken tooth. Depending on the severity of the fracture, your dentist may recommend a filling, crown, root canal, or extraction. By seeking prompt dental care, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your broken tooth.

Learn more from a dental clinic near you like Coastline Family Dental.