Seek Immediate Attention For A Broken Tooth

As humans, procrastination is something many of us are good at. We can put things off until the very last minute – especially things we do not want to do. Going to the doctor and keeping regular dental appointments are two things that many people tend to put off as long as possible. However, when it comes to your health, the last thing you need to do is procrastinate.

Your permanent teeth are meant to last throughout your lifetime. You only get one set of permanent teeth, so caring for them is essential. While tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it is not indestructible. A traumatic accident, a severe blow to the face, or even something as seemingly innocent as chewing on the cap of a pen can all cause a tooth to crack. Poor oral health can also contribute to a broken tooth because an unhealthy tooth is weak and can suffer damage easily.

A tooth can break in a variety of ways. The front teeth are susceptible to being hit during contact sports or in a fall, and they often suffer large chips. The back teeth tend to suffer more cracking, breaking, and splitting because they take the brunt of wear and tear from chewing food at every meal. With this constant use, it is imperative that you make proper oral hygiene a priority in your life.

If you suffer a broken tooth, there is no time to procrastinate. You need to seek immediate attention for a broken tooth to increase your chances of saving your tooth. Follow these steps:

1. Find any portion of the tooth that has broken off.
2. Place the piece (or pieces) of your tooth in a cup with a small amount of milk or your own saliva.
3. Rinse your mouth with saltwater.
4. Contact your dentist immediately.
5. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if you are in intense pain.
6. Place a cold compress on the outside of your face to reduce swelling.
7. Stay calm.

Depending on the type of break that your tooth experienced, your dentist will provide treatment to restore your tooth. Dental bonding and root canals are the two most common treatments for a broken tooth.

At ConfiDENT, we are here to provide excellent care for all your dental needs. If you have a broken, cracked, or damaged tooth, please contact our office for immediate attention.