A broken tooth can be a pretty distressing emergency dentistry experience, whether it’s due to an accident, injury, or unexpected mishap. It often catches us off guard, leaving us unsure of what steps to take next. However, knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in minimizing pain, preventing further damage, and preserving your dental health.
If you’re currently dealing with a broken tooth, call Dr. Wegner at Town & Country Dental right away. Our emergency dentist in Oak Park, IL, can help repair the damage and beat the pain. Call (708) 383-0330 for 24/7 urgent care now.
In today’s post, Dr. Wegner gives you a comprehensive guide on what to do if you find yourself facing a broken tooth.
Stay Calm
While a broken tooth can be upsetting and alarming, it’s crucial to stay calm and composed. Panicking can make the situation much worse and make it harder to think clearly about the next steps.
Assess the Damage
Take a moment to center yourself before carefully assessing the extent of the damage. Take notes – Is it a small chip, a partial break, or a complete fracture?
Relay this information to Dr. Wegner as soon as you can to determine the appropriate course of action.
Save Any Broken Pieces
If there are any pieces of the broken tooth, try to save them. You can protect them from harm and keep them moist by placing the pieces in a clean container with milk. Keeping the pieces in milk is ideal, as the calcium helps keep the fragments “alive.”
In some cases, our Oak Park dentist may be able to reattach the broken portion, depending on the size and location of the break.
Rinse Your Mouth
Rinsing must be done very gently and with clean, warm water. This step will help clean the area and remove any debris or blood.
Avoid using mouthwash or any other products containing alcohol, as they can irritate the area.
Manage Pain and Swelling
After a broken tooth, you may experience a great deal of pain or swelling. Luckily, over-the-counter pain relievers (like acetaminophen) can help alleviate discomfort.
Cold compresses are also a good idea, as applying them to the outside of your mouth can reduce swelling and numb the area.
Protect the Tooth
Sometimes broken teeth have dangerously sharp edges. If possible, try covering sharp edges with dental wax or sugarless gum to prevent them from cutting your tongue or cheeks.
See a Dentist Promptly
Even if the break seems minor, it’s essential to see our emergency dentist in Oak Park, IL, as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can increase your chances of infection, further damage, and complications.
Dr. Wegner can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include bonding, fillings, crowns, or in severe cases, extraction.
Follow Aftercare Instructions
It is important to follow any aftercare instructions carefully. These instructions may include:
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods for a while
- Practicing good oral hygiene
- Attending follow-up appointments as recommended
Emergency Dental Care in Oak Park, IL
A broken tooth can be a daunting experience, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. By staying calm, assessing the damage, and seeking prompt dental care, you can minimize pain, prevent further damage, and preserve your dental health for years to come.
If you’re experiencing a broken tooth, contact our emergency dentist at Town & Country Dental online or at (708) 383-0330 now.