How to Manage a Broken Tooth Until You See a Dentist

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A cracked tooth can be a painful and frightening experience. Whether due to an accident, biting down on something hard, or just plain wear and tear, having some idea what to do right away can help soothe pain and prevent damage. You might be asking, how long can you wait to treat a broken tooth? Although it is important to obtain professional treatment as quickly as possible, you typically want to visit a dentist within 24 to 48 hours to prevent complications such as infection or further tooth damage. Here in this blog, we’ll walk you through real steps to take with a broken tooth until you can visit a dentist.

How to Fix a Cracked Tooth Naturally

There are no actual natural methods of repairing a cracked tooth. Even though good oral health and not biting hard foods will prevent further harm from being done, a cracked tooth still needs to be addressed by a dental professional. Using clove oil or other home remedies applied to the cracked tooth is not something you should do if you have a cracked tooth. These may only mask pain for a short period, but will not mend the issue. Only a dentist can assess the degree of damage and recommend the most suitable treatment, such as fillings, crowns, or other dental procedures.

Rinse Your Mouth with Warm Water

The first thing you should do when you break a tooth is rinse your mouth gently with warm water. This will help remove any debris or food particles around the broken tooth and keep the area clean. It also helps reduce the risk of infection while you wait for your dental appointment. Be careful not to use hot or cold water, as it can cause sensitivity in the exposed tooth area.

Get Professional Help Soon

If you’ve broken a tooth, it’s important to seek professional care as soon as possible. A dentist in Meadows can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the most suitable course of treatment. In many cases, the tooth can be repaired with dental bonding, crowns, or other procedures to restore its function and appearance. Don’t wait too long to get help, as untreated dental injuries can lead to more serious issues down the line.

When You Need Immediate Care

In case of severe pain or a more serious injury, emergency dentistry in Meadows can provide the urgent care you need. Whether you’ve broken a tooth or experienced another dental emergency, contacting an emergency dental clinic ensures you get prompt treatment to avoid complications. Many emergency dentists offer after-hours care, making it easy to get help when you need it most.

Get Help Fast

If you’re unable to visit your regular dentist immediately, searching for emergency dentistry near you can help you find a clinic that offers immediate care. Many dental practices provide emergency services for situations like a broken tooth, and they can give you guidance on how to manage your situation until you can receive treatment. Don’t hesitate to contact them, as prompt care can make all the difference in your recovery.

Control the Bleeding and Reduce Pain

If the broken tooth has caused bleeding, use a clean cloth or gauze to apply gentle pressure to the area. This will help stop the bleeding and reduce swelling. If bleeding doesn’t stop within 10 minutes, it’s important to seek immediate care. Additionally, for pain relief, over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort until you see your dentist.

Protect the Broken Tooth

If a part of your tooth is broken off but remains in your mouth, try to protect the area from further damage. You can use a piece of sugar-free gum or dental wax to cover the jagged edge. This will help prevent irritation to your gums or the inside of your cheek until you can see a dentist. Avoid touching the broken area with your tongue, as this may cause further irritation or discomfort.

Avoid Eating Hard or Hot Foods

Until you’re able to visit your dentist, it’s a good idea to avoid eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods. These can aggravate the broken tooth and cause additional pain. It’s also wise to steer clear of hot or cold foods and drinks, as the exposed nerve might make your tooth more sensitive. Stick to soft, room-temperature foods to minimize discomfort.

Get Professional Care at Southside Dental

At Southside Dental, we understand how stressful dealing with a broken tooth can be. Our team is here to provide fast, reliable care for any dental emergency. If you’re dealing with a broken tooth, don’t wait—contact us today to schedule an appointment and get the care you need. We’re here to help you restore your smile and maintain good oral health!

 

780-306-7697