Is A Broken Tooth A Dental Emergency?

Just like other medical crises that can affect your health, you should treat dental emergencies immediately. And let’s state this first of all; yes, a broken tooth is a dental emergency. If you broke your teeth, see a doctor as soon as possible! Quick-acting under this situation could save you from several mouth issues. But not everyone can distinguish when something is an emergency.

One of these common problems is a broken tooth. Nowadays, there are still people who believe they can wait until the next day to find a dentist, but this could be dangerous for your mouth and health. Keep reading to know how to treat broken teeth.

a patient with a broken tooth

Can you consider a broken tooth a dental emergency?

Any problem with your teeth that causes you an unbearable tooth pain, uncontrollable bleed, or exposes your mouth to infections in a short- time should be considered an emergency. So, again, yes, a broken tooth is a dental emergency. Even though not all cases need urgent medical attention; It is necessary to identify the severity of the injury.

If it is just a small chip, it can wait until the next day or even a couple of days. Your dentist will most likely repair the tooth with dental bonding. However, if almost half or a portion of the tooth is missing, it is necessary to treat it immediately. Broken teeth like that leave the internal structure of the tooth exposed. It could lead to infection and nerve damage. Those are the most severe cases of dental emergency due to broken teeth. Those nerves are in your face. Not only would your health be affected, but also you would not be able to recover that tooth!

What do to in case of a broken tooth? 

Now you know that situations like a broken tooth are an emergency. However, what kind of first aid can you do to prevent the problem from getting worse while going to the dentist? Follow these steps if you feel one of your teeth is chipped or broken: 

1. Rinse your mouth 

Rinse your mouth quickly to clean the area of food debris that might be there. Besides, the broken tooth may still be in your mouth, and it can help you save it.

2. Stop the bleeding

If you notice some blood, take a clean towel or gauze, place it on the broken tooth, and carefully do some pressure. Keep doing this for a couple of minutes while you keep doing the next steps. 

If the bleeding is excessive, it is best to call an ambulance. It could be a dental emergency much more severe than just a broken tooth.

3. Try to save the broken piece of tooth

There could be a chance to repair it! Try to find the portion of the broken tooth. Rinse it with water and then submerge it in milk, saline solution, or (if you do not have any of these) clean water.

4. Take a pain reliever

If you feel a lot of pain, take a pill. It could be aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen. 

You could have a broken tooth and still not have pain. It does not mean they are not dental emergencies, be careful!

a person in pain with a damaged tooth

5. If there is a chance, apply a cold compress

A cold pack will not only help you with the bleeding but also with the inflammation and pain.

While you do these steps, you should contact us or call your local dentist who can assist with the broken tooth emergency, or you should be already on your way to the dental office. Other forms of dental emergency can be found here.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. Any reliance you place on the information provided in these blogs is, therefore, strictly at your own risk. We shall not be held responsible for any loss or damage resulting from the use of the information provided on this website.
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