I Broke My Tooth! Now What?

The qualified professionals at Innovative Dentistry Biltmore can evaluate your condition and recommend the most suitable course of action.

It's Friday night off Camelback and you just cracked your tooth on a shell buried in your slice of pecan pie. Now you have an exquisitely sensitive tooth that is cutting your tongue. Here are some general suggestions for what you could do if you've broken a tooth. Getting to a Phoenix dentist promptly will improve your chances of avoiding pain, infection or tooth loss.  Here are some steps you might consider if you can't get to a dental office in Phoenix today:

Save the Broken Piece:

  • If you can locate the broken piece of your tooth, try to save it. Rinse it gently with warm water, but do not scrub or clean it with any chemicals. Place the broken piece in a container with milk or your saliva to keep it moist.

Rinse Your Mouth:

  • Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area around the broken tooth. Be careful not to swallow any small fragments.

Control Bleeding (if applicable):

  • If there is any bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the affected area with a clean piece of gauze or a cloth. This can help control bleeding until you can see a dentist.

Use Cold Compress:

  • Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the broken tooth can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.

Take Over-the-Counter Pain Medication:

  • If you're experiencing pain, you may consider taking over-the-counter pain medication, following the recommended dosage on the packaging.

Avoid Certain Foods:

  • Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the side of the broken tooth. This can help prevent further damage and reduce discomfort.

Sharp Edges:

Pharmacies carry soft orthodontic wax that can be used to cover sharp, irritating edges while you wait to get into a dentist. 

Visit a Dentist Promptly:

  • It's crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible. They will assess the extent of the damage, discuss treatment options, and provide the necessary care to address the broken tooth.

Remember, only a dentist can provide appropriate advice and treatment based on your specific situation. If the break is severe, involves intense pain, or there are any signs of infection, seek professional dental help promptly. The qualified professionals at Innovative Dentistry Biltmore can evaluate your condition and recommend the most suitable course of action.