What to Do Right Away
If you crack or break a tooth, stay calm and act quickly. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the area, and if you can find any broken pieces, save them and bring them with you to our office. Apply a cold compress to your cheek near the injured tooth to help control swelling and ease discomfort.
If a sharp edge is irritating your tongue or cheek, cover it with a piece of sugar-free gum or dental wax until you can be seen. Avoid chewing on the affected side, and stick to soft foods in the meantime.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
A broken tooth is more than a cosmetic problem. Once the protective enamel is compromised, the inner layers of the tooth are exposed to bacteria, food, and temperature changes, which can lead to infection, nerve damage, or a worsening crack if left untreated. What starts as a simple chip can turn into a much more involved and costly repair the longer you wait.
How We Treat a Broken Tooth
Dr. Maitre, Dr. Crabtree, and Dr. Jackson will examine the tooth, and in many cases take an X-ray, to determine how deep the damage goes and whether the nerve has been affected. Minor chips are often repaired the same day with cosmetic bonding, while more significant breaks may call for a custom dental crown to restore strength and appearance. If the crack has reached the nerve, a root canal may be needed before the tooth is restored.
Contact Maitre & Crabtree Dental Group Today
A broken tooth doesn’t have to derail your day. We keep time open for dental emergencies and will get you in as quickly as possible for relief and repair. Contact us online or call our office at (251) 344-4571.