An accident, a bite into hard food, bruxism… The causes of a broken tooth can be diverse. And when it happens, the first reaction is: What now?.
Keep calm! Knowing what to do in the event of a fractured tooth can make a difference to recovery and the success of treatment.
In this Orallagos blog article, we’ll guide you step by step on how to deal with this situation, from first aid to the treatment options available.
What to do in case of a broken tooth
1. Assess the severity of the fracture:
- Small fracture: chip in the enamel, without pain or sensitivity.
- Medium fracture: loss of a larger piece of the tooth, with mild to moderate pain.
- Serious fracture: tooth broken at the root, with intense pain and possible mobility.
2. Take immediate action
- Clean the area with warm water and rinse with saline solution.
- Apply ice to the area to reduce swelling and pain.
- If the tooth is bleeding, press on a clean gauze pad until the bleeding stops.
- Save the piece of broken tooth in milk or saline solution.
3. See a dentist as soon as possible
- In the event of a serious fracture, seek emergency care.
- For minor fractures, book an appointment as soon as possible.
Treatment options for a broken tooth
- Restoration with composite resin: ideal for small and medium fractures.
- Tooth crown: indicated for more extensive fractures or when the tooth structure is compromised.
- Endodontics (root canal treatment): necessary if the fracture reaches the pulp of the tooth.
- Exodontia (extraction): last resort, used when the tooth is badly damaged or the fracture is at the root.
Tips for preventing tooth fractures
- Maintain good oral hygiene: brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily.
- Make regular visits to the dentist: for check-ups and professional cleanings.
- Avoid nail biting, biting hard objects and bruxism.
- Use mouthwash during sporting activities.
Aftercare
- Follow your dentist’s instructions regarding oral hygiene and diet.
- Avoid chewing hard food on the side of the fractured tooth.
- Use painkillers if you feel pain.
- Return to the dentist for follow-up recovery.
Remember: time is crucial for the successful treatment of a broken tooth. By acting quickly and seeking professional help, you increase the chances of recovering the health and function of your tooth.
Book your appointment at Orallagos today!
Our experienced dentists are ready to assess your case and offer the best treatment for your fractured tooth. Call us today!
