Would you know what to do if your tooth were to break? Few people do! Over time, teeth grinding (bruxism) and tooth decay can weaken teeth, putting them at risk of breaking, and there is no telling when a dental emergency, such as an unexpected blow, could occur, causing severe damage to one or more teeth. It is important to be prepared for a broken tooth. We provide steps for dealing with a broken tooth below.
The Steps to Take Immediately Following a Broken Tooth
You need to take control of the situation. First, rinse your mouth with warm water. Doing so can remove some bacteria from your mouth and away from your now vulnerable tooth. Second, call your dentist! Your dentist can prevent an infection and further damage. Third, if the pain is unbearable, pain relievers can help.
Fixing the Tooth
The method used to repair a broken tooth depends upon the severity of the damage. For minor damage, such as a chip, dental bonding or a filling may be effective. A dental filling can provide extra strength to the tooth, reinforcing it against further damage. For front teeth, dental bonding is used. The composite resin material used for dental bonding can be shaped and then hardened, restoring the form and appearance of the tooth.
In severe cases, a dental crown is usually the best option. Sometimes called a cap, a crown fits over the top of a broken tooth, protecting it from further harm. Dental crowns can be made of metal, porcelain or a combination of the two, depending upon the location of the damaged tooth and the level of reinforcement needed.
Visit Your Williamsburg Dentist
If your tooth breaks, get help immediately to prevent further damage and infection. If you require dental assistance or would like to learn more about our services, contact our office today at 757-645-4055.