What to Do if You Break a Tooth
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Breaking a tooth can be a painful and distressing experience. It might happen suddenly—while biting into something hard, playing sports, or due to an accident. Other times, it results from untreated decay that weakens the tooth structure. No matter the cause, acting quickly is key to saving the tooth and avoiding further complications. At Modbury Dental Practice, we understand how unsettling a dental emergency can be, and we’re here to guide you through the right steps.
Breaking a tooth can be a painful and distressing experience. It might happen suddenly—while biting into something hard, playing sports, or due to an accident. Other times, it results from untreated decay that weakens the tooth structure. No matter the cause, acting quickly is key to saving the tooth and avoiding further complications. At Modbury Dental Practice, we understand how unsettling a dental emergency can be, and we’re here to guide you through the right steps.
The first thing to do is stay calm. A broken tooth might seem like a major issue, but with prompt dental care, most teeth can be restored. Stress or panic can make the situation feel worse, especially if you’re in pain. Take a moment to breathe and focus on taking the right next steps. Staying level-headed will help you manage the discomfort and seek help efficiently.
If a piece of your tooth has broken off, try to locate it. Carefully rinse it under clean, lukewarm water—just enough to remove dirt or debris. Place it in a clean container, ideally submerged in milk or your own saliva, which can help preserve the fragment. In some cases, your dentist may be able to reattach the broken piece, so it’s worth bringing it to your appointment. Avoid scrubbing the piece or using any cleaning agents.
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to help keep the area clean. This can remove any loose debris and reduce the risk of infection. Be cautious not to use hot water, as the broken tooth may be sensitive to temperature. Avoid mouthwashes with alcohol, as they can sting and irritate the exposed area.
If there is bleeding from the gum or around the tooth, use a piece of clean gauze or a cloth to apply gentle pressure. Hold it in place for 10 to 15 minutes or until the bleeding slows down. If the bleeding is heavy or doesn’t stop, you may need to seek immediate dental or medical attention. Controlling bleeding is important to prevent further complications and allow for safe treatment.
A broken tooth can have sharp or jagged edges, which may injure your tongue, lips, or cheeks. To avoid this, cover the broken area with dental wax, which you can find at most pharmacies. In a pinch, sugar-free chewing gum can work as a temporary solution. This protective layer can reduce irritation and make it more comfortable while you wait for your appointment.
To help manage pain, apply a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your face near the affected area. Do this for 10–15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling and discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can also help. However, avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum or broken tooth, as this can cause chemical burns and worsen the situation.
While you wait to see your dentist, try not to chew on the side of your mouth with the broken tooth. Stick to soft foods and avoid anything crunchy, sticky, or hard that could worsen the damage. It’s also best to avoid very hot or cold drinks, as the exposed nerves may be extra sensitive to temperature changes.
Once you’ve taken the initial steps, contact us at Modbury Dental Practice as soon as possible. A broken tooth requires prompt professional care, even if there is no pain. Small cracks can lead to larger fractures or infections if left untreated.
📞 Phone: 01548 830811
Treatment for a broken tooth depends on the extent of the damage:
Dental Bonding – Ideal for minor chips or cracks. A tooth-coloured resin is applied to reshape the tooth.
Fillings – Composite or amalgam fillings might be needed to restore the tooth.
Crowns – For larger breaks, a dental crown may be needed to restore function and appearance.
Root Canal Treatment – If the break exposes the tooth’s nerve, root canal therapy may be required to save the tooth and relieve pain.
Tooth Extraction – In cases where the tooth is severely damaged and cannot be restored, it may need to be removed.
At Modbury Dental Practice, we offer same-day emergency appointments. Our experienced team will assess the damage and explain your treatment options.
