A broken tooth can occur when you least expect it. You could crack into something hard, take a blow to the jaw, or just have a weak tooth that shatters. Whatever the circumstances, the pain and stagger can be very frightening. You can get confused or even panic a bit, especially when you don’t know what immediate steps to take. But don’t worry.
There are some simple tips you can follow right away to alleviate the pain, protect the tooth, and prevent it from getting worse. In this blog, you can find out what to do with broken tooth until dentist comes to help. So if this happens to you or someone you know, you will be prepared to respond calmly and safely. Read these tips carefully!
Tip #1: Stay Calm and Check the Damage
The first thing to do is to remain calm. While a broken tooth can hurt or appear unsightly, you don’t have to worry. If possible, slowly rinse your mouth with warm water to clear the area. This will scrub the dirt, blood, or food, and give you a better view of the damage. You can then carefully use your tongue or a clean finger to feel around your mouth for the extent of the break.
Sometimes, only a tiny bit breaks away. In other cases, a much larger portion of the tooth is missing, such that you can even see the sensitive, inner portion of the tooth. If you’re bleeding, apply a clean cloth or some gauze to the site for about 10 to 15 minutes until the bleeding ceases. Despite how it may feel or appear, the majority of broken teeth are not emergencies and can be repaired by a dentist.
Tip #2: Save the Broken Piece (If You Can)
If a portion of your tooth breaks off, save the piece. If it’s clean, and not too damaged, the dentist may be able to bond it back to your tooth. Gently pick it up and spray it with some water. Do not scrub it and do not use soap or chemicals.
Simply store the piece in a small amount of milk or your own saliva to keep it moist. If you don’t have either, you can substitute water for a limited time, but milk or saliva is better. Make sure you take it with you to the dentist when you go for broken tooth treatment.
Tip #3: Ease the Pain With Simple Remedies
A broken tooth may be substantially painful, particularly if the nerves within are exposed. Some remedies won’t fix the issue, but they’ll help you stay comfortable until you get proper tooth injury help.
You may take an over-the-counter painkiller, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These meds can reduce pain and also deal with any swelling. Just make sure to read the label and not exceed the recommended dose.
A cold compress or ice pack can also be applied to your cheek next to the tooth. This works to numb the area and reduce swelling. Apply the ice for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Then wait at least another 20 minutes before reapplying.
Tip #4: Protect the Tooth From Further Damage
After you have a chipped tooth, you’ll want to take extreme caution not to cause further damage. For chipped tooth repair, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Only eat soft foods, like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or soup. A hard or sticky food can cause the tooth to crack even more or break off again.
If a tooth has a jagged edge that’s hurting your tongue or cheek, you can cover it with dental wax. Dental wax is readily available at any pharmacy. A morsel of sugar-free gum can offer a temporary fix if you have no other options.
Tip #5: Keep Your Mouth Clean
Your mouth needs to stay clean even if you have a broken tooth. But you’ll need to be gentle. Your brushing and flossing routine should continue as normal, you should avoid directly brushing the broken tooth with your toothbrush. Gently swish with warm salt water to clean the area and reduce infection risk.
To create a rinse, simply mix half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Rinse your mouth with it two to three times a day. This can help soothe your gums, flush out bacteria, and keep your mouth fresh while you wait for emergency dental care.
Tip #6: Get To a Dentist IMMEDIATELY!
Sometimes the pain might go away, but a broken tooth still requires dental treatment. Call your dentist and tell them what happened. They will ask about your symptoms and how the tooth looks or feels. They will probably schedule an appointment for you as soon as they can and recommend the best treatment for fixing a cracked tooth.
If the break is severe enough, the dentist may restore your tooth using a filling, crown or bonding material. If you’ve damaged a tooth badly or worse, if the root is exposed, you may require a root canal or even extraction. But don’t panic too much, dentists are used to broken teeth, and there are plenty of ways to get your smile back.
What Not to Do
There are a few no-nos to keep in mind while waiting to see the dentist.
- Avoid chewing gum or eating crunchy or sticky foods on the side of the broken tooth.
- Steer clear of very hot or very cold drinks because your teeth might be more sensitive.
- Also, don’t attempt a tooth repair using glue or other home kits. Such factors may worsen the situation and can even harm your teeth further.
Why Choose Northside Family Dental?
Northside Family Dental offers the convenience of scheduling appointments for the entire family at one location. We simplify managing everyone’s dental care needs, from children to seniors, as all family members can receive treatment at the same practice. So, we save time and ensure consistent dental care for all.
Final Thoughts!
A broken tooth is not fun, but it does not have to ruin your day. By knowing exactly what to do with a broken tooth until the dentist, you will feel more confident handling the situation. Act quickly, manage the pain, and protect the area; those simple tips can make a big difference.
So the next time you or someone you know breaks a tooth, just remember these tips. With proper care and some patience, you will be smiling again before you know it.