A broken tooth can range from a small chip to a severe split. The type of break determines how urgent it is. A minor chip might just be a cosmetic issue. A deep fracture, however, can expose the nerve and lead to pain or infection. It’s crucial to know what to do right away.
The break could be a small chip, a larger fracture, a crack that runs down the tooth, or a full split. Each type requires different care, but the first steps are always the same: stay calm and manage the situation.
Severe Pain
Constant, throbbing pain could mean the nerve is exposed.
Large Piece Missing
A large fracture exposes the inner layers of the tooth, increasing infection risk.
Numbness
Numbness in the tooth or surrounding area can indicate nerve damage.
Sharp Edges
The remaining tooth is sharp and cutting your tongue or cheek.
Minor Chip, No Pain
A small chip without pain is less urgent, but still needs to be checked.
Follow these steps immediately. Time matters.
Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of water). This cleans the area and helps reduce swelling.
If there's bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a piece of sterile gauze or a wet tea bag for about 10 minutes.
Apply a cold compress to your cheek or lip over the broken tooth to reduce swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help.
If you can find the broken piece of your tooth, save it. Rinse it with water and store it in a small container with milk or your own saliva.
Contact a dentist immediately. Even if it doesn't hurt, the tooth is weakened and needs professional care to prevent further damage or infection.
Keep the area clean with gentle rinsing.
Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
Save any broken tooth fragments.
Eat soft foods and avoid chewing on the affected side.
Call your dentist as soon as possible.
Don't use superglue to try and reattach the piece.
Don't chew hard or sticky foods.
Don't poke or wiggle the broken tooth.
Don't ignore it, even if there is no pain.
Don't wait to see a dentist. Delay can lead to more complex problems.
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Any broken tooth is a reason to see a dentist. Here’s how to know if you need an emergency appointment.
You are in severe pain.
The tooth is bleeding and it won't stop.
A large piece of the tooth has broken off.
You see a red or pink spot on the broken tooth (the pulp).
The tooth is now loose or has shifted.