Uh oh! You’re biting into your favorite snack when suddenly—crack. You realize part of your tooth is gone. Whether it’s a small chip or a major break, a damaged tooth can be alarming. The good news is that your dentist can repair it and relieve your discomfort quickly. Knowing how to handle a broken tooth right away can make all the difference in protecting your smile.
What Causes a Tooth to Break?
Teeth are incredibly strong, but they’re not indestructible. A tooth can break for several reasons, including:
- Biting down on something hard, like ice or a popcorn kernel
- Suffering an injury to the face or mouth
- Weakened enamel from cavities or large fillings
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Sudden temperature changes (like eating something hot followed by something cold)
Regardless of the cause, it’s important to act fast to reduce pain and prevent further damage.
What to Do Right Away
If you’ve broken a tooth, here’s how to handle the situation until you can see your dentist:
- Rinse your mouth gently. Use warm water to clean the area and remove any debris.
- Stop any bleeding. If there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth.
- Save any pieces. If part of the tooth broke off, keep the fragment in a clean container with milk or saliva. Bring it to your dentist—sometimes it can be reattached.
- Reduce swelling or pain. Use a cold compress on your cheek and take over-the-counter pain medication if needed. Avoid applying painkillers directly to the gum, as this can cause irritation.
- Avoid chewing on that side. Stick to soft foods and avoid extreme temperatures until your appointment.
Even if your tooth doesn’t hurt, it’s still important to get it checked out. A small chip can expose deeper layers of the tooth, leaving it vulnerable to infection.
How Your Dentist Can Repair a Broken Tooth
The right treatment depends on the severity and location of the break. Some common options include:
Dental Bonding
For minor chips or cracks, your dentist can apply a tooth-colored resin to rebuild the shape of your tooth. The process is quick, painless, and looks completely natural.
Dental Crowns
If a large portion of your tooth is damaged, a custom crown may be used to cover and protect it. Crowns restore both function and appearance, allowing you to bite and chew comfortably again.
Root Canal Treatment
If the break exposes the inner pulp of your tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove infection and save the tooth. Afterward, a crown is typically placed for added protection.
Veneers
For visible front teeth, porcelain veneers can restore a seamless, beautiful smile while covering chips or cracks.
No matter the situation, your dentist will recommend the best way to relieve discomfort and restore your smile’s health and appearance.
By staying calm, protecting the tooth, and seeking professional care quickly, you can recover from a broken tooth with minimal stress.
About the Practice
Westbury Dental Spa proudly serves patients in Westbury, NY, with compassionate, high-quality dental care. Led our experienced team, we offer comprehensive general, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry services so we’re always here when you need us most. Whether you’ve chipped a tooth or need urgent care, Westbury Dental Spa provides gentle, personalized treatment to help you smile with confidence again.
Call us at (516) 282-5100 or request an appointment online.