A broken tooth can occur unexpectedly due to an injury, biting down on something hard, or from an existing cavity that weakens the tooth’s structure. Dealing with a chipped or fractured tooth can be a stressful experience. Knowing the immediate steps to take can help you manage the situation until you see a dentist.
What Should You Do First?
When you first discover a broken tooth, it’s natural to feel concerned. Taking immediate steps helps manage the situation, keep the area clean, and even assist your dentist in treatment. Follow these practical actions to protect your mouth until you can get professional help:
- Rinse with warm salt water: This is the first step. Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Swish it gently around your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. This helps clean the affected area and removes any small tooth fragments. You can repeat this rinse several times throughout the day.
- Save any tooth fragments: If you can find the piece of your broken tooth, carefully pick it up. Wrap the fragment in a damp piece of gauze or a wet paper towel and place it in a small, clean container. Bring this with you to your dental appointment, as your dentist might be able to reattach it depending on the type of break.
Taking these initial steps helps prevent further irritation and provides a cleaner environment for eventual dental treatment. While these measures offer temporary relief, contacting your dentist promptly is the most significant step for a proper assessment and repair.
How Do You Ease Pain?
A broken tooth sometimes causes pain or sensitivity. You can apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek or lip over the affected area to help reduce swelling. Hold the compress in place for about 15 minutes at a time, with breaks in between.
Over-the-counter pain relievers may offer some temporary relief from discomfort. Always follow the dosage instructions on the product packaging. Avoiding very hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks also prevents further irritation to the exposed part of the tooth.
What Temporary Fixes Help?
While you wait for your dental appointment, some temporary measures help protect the broken tooth. These are not permanent solutions, but they may help manage sensitivity and prevent further damage.
You can find these items at most drugstores:
- Dental Wax: Cover the sharp or jagged edge of a broken tooth with a small piece of dental wax. This creates a soft barrier that protects your tongue, cheek, and gums from getting cut.
- Temporary Filling Material: Some kits include a material that can be used to cover the damaged part of the tooth temporarily. This may help seal the area and reduce sensitivity.
After applying a temporary fix, continue to be careful with the tooth. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth and stick to softer foods. These measures help keep the temporary material in place and prevent more damage to the tooth.
Get a Broken Tooth Fixed
A broken tooth requires professional evaluation and treatment to restore its function and appearance. A dentist can determine the extent of the damage and provide a lasting solution. Possible treatments range from a simple filling or bonding to a crown, root canal, or extraction, depending on the severity of the break. Do not delay seeking dental care. Contact your dentist to schedule an appointment.