May 19, 2025
Broken Tooth: First Aid & What to Do
By Dr. Natasha Kanchwala, DMD
The moment you feel that sharp crack or see a piece of your tooth has broken off, a wave of panic can set in. A broken tooth is a common and unsettling dental emergency, and what you do in the first few minutes can significantly impact managing pain and increasing the chances of saving your tooth.
While the most important step is to call a dentist, this guide will serve as your immediate first-aid plan. At Smyrna Dental Studio, we want you to feel prepared and calm. Follow these steps before you see us to ensure the best possible outcome.
Your Immediate First-Aid Action Plan for a Broken Tooth
If you've broken a tooth, remain calm and follow this step-by-step plan.
Step 1: Call Your Smyrna Dentist Immediately
Before taking any action, please call our office. A broken tooth is a dental emergency, and time is a critical factor. Our team will provide you with personalized instructions over the phone and prepare for your arrival.
Step 2: Rinse Your Mouth Gently
Carefully swish your mouth with a warm salt water solution (mix ½ teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water). This will help clean the area of any debris and reduce the risk of infection.
Step 3: Stop Any Bleeding
If there is bleeding, apply gentle but firm pressure to the area with a piece of sterile gauze or a clean, damp cloth. The bleeding should stop within 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 4: Manage Pain and Swelling
To reduce swelling and numb the pain, apply a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel to the outside of your cheek or lips over the injured area. You can also take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain reliever, such as ibuprofen.
Step 5: Save the Broken Piece
If you can find the fragment that broke off, save it. Gently rinse it with milk or water (do not scrub it) and store it in a small, clean container with milk or your own saliva to keep it moist. In some cases, we may be able to reattach it.
Step 6: Protect Your Mouth
If the remaining part of the tooth has a sharp or jagged edge, you can cover it with a piece of over-the-counter dental wax or even a piece of sugar-free gum. This will protect your tongue, cheek, and lips from being cut.
What NOT to Do: Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do NOT assume it isn't serious if it doesn't hurt. The nerve may be damaged, or the crack could worsen.
Do NOT use superglue or any household adhesives to try and fix the tooth. These substances are toxic and will cause more harm.
Do NOT place aspirin or any painkiller directly on your gums or the tooth. This can cause a painful chemical burn to the soft tissues.
Do NOT wait to call for an appointment. The longer you wait, the higher the risk of infection and the more complex the repair may become.
FAQs: Your Questions About a Broken Tooth
Q1: Is a small, painless chip still a dental emergency? Yes, please call us right away to schedule a prompt appointment. Even a small chip can weaken the tooth, hide a deeper crack, and create a pathway for bacteria to cause decay. It's always best to have it examined by a professional.
Q2: Can my broken tooth be reattached? Sometimes, yes. If the broken piece is a clean fragment and you get to our office quickly, it is sometimes possible to bond the original piece back onto the tooth. This is why it's so important to save the fragment if you can.
Q3: What should I eat if I have a broken tooth? Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the injured side of your mouth until you can see us. Good options include yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid anything hard, crunchy, or sticky.
Q4: I'm in a lot of pain. What is the fastest way to get relief? The fastest immediate relief will come from a combination of a cold compress on your cheek and an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen. However, this is only temporary. The fastest way to achieve real, lasting relief is to visit a dentist to address the underlying cause of the problem.
Calm Actions Lead to the Best Outcomes
A broken tooth can be a frightening experience, but by following these simple first-aid steps, you can manage the situation effectively and protect your smile from further harm. Remember, the most critical step is to seek professional care without delay.
Our compassionate team at Smyrna Dental Studio is ready to help you through any dental emergency.
If you have broken a tooth in the Smyrna area, call our office immediately for an emergency appointment. We are here to help you.
