A broken tooth can happen to anyone due to falls, accidents, or biting on something hard. While it can be very distressing, there are effective steps that can be taken at home to minimize damage. Though these steps are not a substitute for visiting a dentist immediately, they can reduce pain and protect the tooth until you can get professional care.
What to Do When You Break a Tooth
Immediate action can make a significant difference in preserving the tooth. According to the Dental Health Journal, here are the key steps to follow right after breaking a tooth:
Rinse with Warm Water
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the area and remove any food particles that may be stuck around the broken tooth. Avoid using hot water as it may irritate exposed nerves.
Stop Bleeding
If there's bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cotton ball or gauze. Change the gauze frequently until the bleeding stops.
Keep the Broken Piece
If part of the tooth has fallen out, store it in a clean container with saline solution or milk. According to the American Dental Association, this helps preserve the living tissues of the broken part, making it easier to reattach it later.
Reduce Pain and Swelling
A broken tooth can cause pain due to exposed nerves or injured gums. To alleviate pain and swelling, follow these tips:
Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek over the affected area for 15 minutes.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease the discomfort. Be sure to follow the recommended dosages.
Avoid Hot and Cold Foods: Avoid eating hot or cold foods and drinks that might exacerbate the pain due to the sensitivity of the exposed tooth.
Protecting the Broken Tooth
If part of the tooth is missing, protecting the exposed area until you see a dentist is important:
Dental Wax: If the break leaves a sharp edge that could hurt your tongue or gums, cover it with dental wax or a piece of clean gauze.
Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side: Try not to chew on the broken tooth. Opt for soft foods like soups or yogurt to avoid putting pressure on the broken tooth.
Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution can help clean the area and reduce the risk of infection. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
When to Seek Urgent Dental Care
Certain situations require immediate dental attention. According to the British Dental Journal, seek urgent care if:
The break is deep, reaching the nerves or tissues.
There is severe pain that cannot be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
An infection or abscess develops near the broken tooth.
The tooth has been completely knocked out of place.
How a Dentist Can Treat a Broken Tooth
Once at the dentist, they will assess the damage and determine the most appropriate treatment. Potential treatment options include:
Reattaching the Broken Piece: If the broken part has been saved, the dentist may be able to bond it back in place using special adhesives.
Crown or Filling: For more severe breaks, the dentist might use a crown to cover the damaged tooth or apply a filling to restore its shape.
Root Canal Treatment: If the nerves are damaged, a root canal might be necessary to save the tooth.
Preventing Tooth Breakage
To reduce the risk of breaking a tooth, the Oral Health Foundation recommends the following:
Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice cubes or pens.
Wear a mouthguard during contact sports to protect your teeth from impact.
Visit your dentist regularly for checkups to detect any potential problems that may increase the risk of breakage.
While breaking a tooth is an unpleasant experience, it doesn't necessarily mean losing the tooth permanently. By following the steps outlined above and promptly visiting your dentist, you can prevent long-term damage and avoid tooth loss.
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