A tooth break can be unsettling, but acting quickly can help save it and prevent further issues. Here’s a straightforward guide on what to do and how your dentist can help:
Immediate Steps to Take
Rinse Your Mouth: Gently rinse with warm water to clean the area. Avoid hot or cold water, which can cause discomfort.
Save Broken Pieces: If you can, keep any broken tooth fragments. Place them in a container with milk or your saliva to keep them moist.
Control Bleeding: If bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a piece of gauze until it stops.
Manage Pain and Swelling: Use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth and take over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
Protect the Tooth: If the break has left sharp edges, cover them with dental wax or sugarless gum to avoid cuts to your tongue or cheek.
Treatment Options
- Dental Filling or Bonding: For small chips, your dentist might use a filling or bonding material to smooth out the tooth.
- Dental Cap or Crown: For larger breaks, a crown (a protective cap) may be fitted to cover and protect the damaged tooth.
- Dental Veneers: If the break is on a front tooth, a veneer (a thin shell of porcelain or resin) might be used to cover and restore its appearance.
- Root Canal Therapy: If the break exposes the inner part of the tooth, a root canal might be needed to remove damaged nerves and seal the tooth.
- Tooth Extraction: In severe cases, if the tooth can’t be repaired, it may need to be extracted. Your dentist can then discuss options like implants or bridges to replace it.
Why See a Dentist?
Getting to the dentist quickly is key to preventing further damage or infection. They’ll assess the break and recommend the best treatment to restore your tooth’s function and appearance.
Taking these steps can help manage the situation until you get professional care, ensuring your tooth stays healthy and intact. Educare Institute of Dental Science completely educates the students well known about oral hygiene