A broken tooth is a significant dental injury requiring immediate attention. Quick, correct action can significantly impact the long-term prognosis, potentially saving the tooth from extraction and minimizing pain. A fracture exposes the sensitive inner pulp to bacteria, which can rapidly lead to infection and nerve damage. Understanding the proper first-aid protocol is the first step to stabilizing the injury until a dental professional can intervene.
Immediate First Aid for a Broken Tooth
Aggressive brushing or using toothpaste on a broken tooth is not recommended. The immediate focus should be on cleaning the area and preventing further trauma without introducing chemical irritants or physical stress. Gently rinse your mouth with warm water or a saline solution to clear away any blood, debris, or small fragments of the tooth without disturbing the fracture site.
If the injury is bleeding, apply light, consistent pressure to the site using a piece of clean gauze for several minutes until the bleeding slows or stops. To reduce swelling and manage discomfort, a cold compress or ice pack should be applied to the cheek near the injury. This application helps constrict blood vessels, minimizing inflammation and providing temporary pain relief.
Locate and preserve any pieces of the broken tooth, as a dentist may be able to bond the original fragment back into place. Handle the fragment only by the crown, avoiding the root area to protect delicate tissues. Store the fragment submerged in whole milk, saliva, or a tooth preservation kit to keep the cells moist and viable. If a sharp edge remains, temporarily cover it with dental wax or a piece of sugar-free gum.
Critical Actions to Avoid
Once stabilization is complete, several actions must be strictly avoided to prevent worsening the injury. Do not use the broken tooth to bite or chew any food, even soft items, as this can put pressure on the fracture. Limit chewing to the unaffected side of your mouth and stick to a diet of soft, non-sticky foods.
Do not attempt to pick at the injury with your fingers or tools, as this can introduce bacteria into the open fracture. Avoid applying aspirin or any other pain reliever directly onto the gum tissue near the tooth. Aspirin is acidic and can cause a chemical burn on the soft gum tissue, creating a secondary problem for the dentist to treat.
Seeking Urgent Professional Care
A broken tooth is a time-sensitive injury, and seeking professional care quickly is important for a successful outcome. After stabilizing the injury, contact your dental office immediately to request an emergency appointment. Clearly explain the extent of the fracture and whether you have recovered the tooth fragment to help the office staff prepare for your arrival.
If the dental office is closed, contact an emergency dental clinic or a hospital emergency room. The goal is to receive professional evaluation quickly, especially if the tooth is completely knocked out or the fracture is deep. Before your appointment, manage pain with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed, and bring any preserved tooth fragments with you.
Repair Options for Dental Fractures
The treatment for a broken tooth depends on the location and severity of the fracture, assessed by the dentist using visual inspection and X-rays. For minor chips involving only the outer enamel layer, the tooth is often repaired in a single visit using dental bonding. This process involves applying a tooth-colored resin material, which is then shaped and hardened with a special light to restore the tooth’s appearance.
If the fracture extends deeper into the dentin or a significant portion of the tooth is missing, a dental crown may be the necessary restoration. The remaining tooth structure is prepared to receive a custom-made crown that covers the entire visible surface, protecting the weakened tooth and restoring its function. If the fracture has reached the pulp chamber, a root canal procedure is required first to remove the infected tissue. Following the root canal, a crown is placed to seal and reinforce the treated tooth.