Broken Tooth

What to do if you break a tooth
If you break a tooth, it is important to act promptly before your appointment:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to remove any debris.
• Apply a cold compress on the outside of your cheek if swelling occurs.
• Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage.
• Save any broken pieces if possible, and bring them to your appointment.

These simple steps can help protect the area and ease discomfort until you receive professional care.

Common causes of broken teeth
A tooth may break for several reasons, including:

• Accidents or trauma, such as a fall or blow to the face.
• Chewing very hard foods, such as ice or bones.
• Teeth weakened by large fillings or decay.
• Long-term grinding or clenching.
• Sudden force applied to a previously weakened tooth.

Whatever the cause, a broken tooth is a clear sign that urgent dental attention is required.

Assessment and first steps
When you attend your emergency appointment, the dentist will:

• Examine the tooth and surrounding area carefully.
• Take X-rays if necessary to see the full extent of the damage.
• Manage pain and sensitivity with local anaesthetic if required.
• Control bleeding or soft tissue injuries, such as cuts to the lips or gums.

This thorough assessment helps the dentist determine the most suitable treatment for your tooth.

Treatment options for a broken tooth
The type of treatment depends on the severity and position of the break. Common emergency treatments include:

For minor to moderate breaks

• Dental bonding or composite filling – A tooth-coloured resin is applied, shaped, and hardened to restore small chips or cracks.
• Smoothing and polishing – Very small chips may only need to be smoothed to prevent irritation.
• Dental crowns – Larger breaks, especially in molars, may require a crown to restore strength and protect the tooth.
• Veneers – For cosmetic repair of front teeth, a custom-made veneer can restore the tooth’s natural look.

For severe fractures

• Root canal treatment – If the inner pulp of the tooth is exposed or infected, root canal therapy may be necessary to save the tooth. This involves cleaning, sealing, and then protecting the tooth with a crown.
• Tooth extraction – In cases where the damage extends below the gum line or the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be required.

Replacement options such as implants, bridges, or dentures can be discussed at a follow-up appointment.

Aftercare and recovery
Following treatment, your dentist will provide guidance on caring for the repaired or restored tooth. This may include:

• Avoiding very hard or sticky foods for a short period.
• Taking over-the-counter pain relief if advised.
• Keeping the area clean with regular brushing and gentle rinsing.
• Attending any follow-up appointments for permanent restorations.

With proper care, most patients recover quickly and comfortably after treatment.

If you have broken a tooth, don’t delay seeking treatment. Acting quickly can relieve pain, prevent infection, and save the natural tooth whenever possible. We’re here to provide urgent care and support to get you out of pain and protect your smile.