What to Do If You Break a Tooth

A broken tooth is a common dental problem that can happen without warning. Maybe you bit into something and felt it crack, or it broke when you fell or took an elbow during your weekend basketball game. However it happens, prompt action will minimize the damage and save your smile.

Immediately After Breaking the Tooth

The first steps after breaking a tooth are critical. Start by assessing the damage. Rinse your mouth out with warm water and look.

Check to see if there is any bleeding. If so, apply direct pressure with clean gauze. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, call your emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN, immediately to get instructions on what to do.

Also, look for any missing pieces of the tooth. Check inside your mouth first. If possible, avoid swallowing any of the teeth. Also, look around you to see if any flew out of your mouth.

Collect as much of the broken tooth as possible and place the pieces in a sealed container. Take that with you to the dentist.

Manage Pain

A broken tooth may cause some pain and swelling. Apply a cold compress to the cheek nearest the tooth. You may be able to take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Ask the dentist when you call.

Is a Broken Tooth a Dental Emergency?

A broken tooth is a dental emergency because bacteria can get inside the tooth and cause more damage. It may also enter your bloodstream through the break, affecting your overall health.

So, if you break a tooth, call your emergency dentist in all your emergency dentist in Indianapolis, IN, as soon as you notice. This will allow you to make an appointment to be seen and to discuss ways to restore the tooth.