Emergency Dentistry 101: What to Do When You Break a Tooth

Man with broken tooth showing his broken tooth with tweezers and in need of emergency dentistry Accidents happen unexpectedly, and breaking a tooth can be a stressful experience. Knowing how to handle a broken tooth emergency is crucial to preventing further damage and pain. 

At Drs of Smiles, Dr. Glenn LeSueur, LVIF, with seven years of dental experience, is well-equipped to handle urgent dental issues. A Mesa Community College and Arizona State University graduate, he also stays current with advanced training at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. When faced with a broken tooth emergency, Dr. LeSueur and his team are here to provide the expert care you need to protect your smile.

First Aid for a Broken Tooth: Quick Steps to Follow

If you break a tooth, acting quickly to protect your dental health is essential. Here are some steps to follow:

  • Rinse Your Mouth: Swish warm water gently in your mouth to cleanse the injured area. This helps clear away debris and lowers the chance of infection.
  • Apply a Cold Compress: If swelling occurs, place a cold compress on the outside of your cheek near the injured tooth. This will help minimize the swelling and provide relief from discomfort.
  • Save Any Broken Pieces: If possible, collect any pieces of the broken tooth and store them in a container filled with milk or saliva to keep them moist. Be sure to bring them with you to your dental appointment.
  • Protect Sensitive Areas: If the broken tooth has a sharp edge, use dental wax or sugarless gum to cover it and protect your tongue and cheek from cuts.

Knowing what to do if you break a tooth can prevent the situation from worsening. However, not all tooth injuries require the same level of urgency. Seek urgent dental attention if you have significant pain, bleeding, or visible nerve exposure in the tooth.

Why Quick Action Matters

Prompt action in a broken tooth emergency is crucial to prevent complications. Leaving a fractured tooth untreated can result in infections, harm to nearby teeth, or even the complete loss of the damaged tooth. Acting quickly allows for the preservation of the tooth’s structure and can prevent the need for more complex restorative procedures in the future.

Residents of Mesa, AZ, can count on Drs of Smiles for prompt emergency dental care. We can quickly address the situation with comprehensive emergency dentistry services and provide pain relief, temporary repairs, or further treatment options as needed.

Get Fast Relief at Drs of Smiles in Mesa, AZ

If you experience a broken tooth emergency, don’t wait for the care you need. Contact us at 480-834-6991 for prompt, compassionate emergency dentistry in Mesa, AZ. Our skilled team is prepared to assist in restoring your smile and safeguarding your dental health.

Time is critical when it comes to a broken tooth, so act quickly to prevent further complications. Schedule an emergency consultation with Drs of Smiles today—we’re here when you need us most!

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Office Hours

Mon, Wed, Thurs & Fri: 7am - 5pm
Tuesday: 7am - 7pm
Saturday: 8am - 3pm
Sunday: Closed

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