3 Tips for Treating a Broken Tooth

Most instances of a broken tooth occur when the person least expects it, and many do not know what they should do after suffering a broken tooth. By learning more about broken tooth treatment, you can make sure that you are prepared or are able to get prompt treatment after a broken tooth occurs. 

How to properly deal with a broken tooth

Every instance of a broken tooth is unique, but there are common signs to look for when determining if the concern requires an immediate trip to the dentist. In general, it is important to understand what constitutes a dental emergency, how to keep the pain and swelling from a broken tooth at a tolerable level and what treatment options a dentist may recommend to treat the issue long term. 

Understand when a broken tooth is an emergency

Determining if the issue requires emergency treatment is perhaps the most important distinction that a person must make when suffering a broken tooth. If the symptoms are minor, then the person can likely manage the broken tooth at home until they can see the dentist at a more convenient time. However, a broken tooth that shows severe symptoms requires emergency dental care. 

Examples of severe symptoms include but are not limited to severe pain, intolerable tooth sensitivity, gum swelling that does not go away and severe bleeding. These are just a few examples, however, and each person should evaluate the specifics of the situation to determine if emergency treatment is necessary. 

Keep the pain and swelling at a tolerable level

The initial symptoms of a broken tooth for many is the worst part of the experience. Understanding how to treat a broken tooth initially can reduce the need for more extensive treatment later, in addition to making the pain, swelling and sensitivity caused by the break more tolerable in the immediate aftermath. 

People can manage the initial pain and swelling caused by a broken tooth by applying a cold compress on the affected area. If there is minor bleeding, then apply clean gauze to the area to control and stop the bleeding. Taking anti-inflammatory pain relief medication (over-the-counter) can also help as well. 

Visit the dentist for long-term treatment

Lastly but most importantly, individuals with a broken tooth should make a strong effort to get to the dentist within a few days after the accident. If the broken tooth is severe, meaning that there is intolerable pain, uncontrollable bleeding or damage to the root of the tooth, then an immediate trip to the dentist is necessary. That said, visiting the dentist at some point after a broken tooth, regardless of the severity of the symptoms, is essential for ensuring the long-term health of the tooth.

Find out more from an experienced dentist

Contact our dental team by phone or send us an email if you would like to learn more about broken tooth treatment. We can schedule a consultation visit at a time that is convenient for you, as well as answer any questions that you may have.

Request an appointment here: https://thechesterfielddentist.com or call Chesterfield Dentist at (804) 412-0867 for an appointment in our Chester office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Emergency Dental Care in Chester, VA.