Experiencing a sudden jolt of pain or sudden crunch while biting down on something? Nothing derails your day quite like a broken tooth. Whether it happens during a meal, a fall, or an unexpected accident, your first instinct is to panic about your tooth and complete tooth loss.
However, acting quickly and seeking emergency care can help you avoid serious consequences. Read this blog to learn what an emergency dentist can do and how you can manage the situation like a pro.
Step One: Evaluate the Damage
Not all broken teeth are the same. While some cracks can cause minor damage, others can expose sensitive nerves. Here’s a quick look at some common types of tooth fractures:
- Craze Lines are shallow cracks that are not painful but may impact your appearance.
- When your tooth is chipped, a small piece of the enamel is lost. You might experience no pain, but it leaves behind sharp edges.
- A crack on your tooth might run deeper, possibly to the nerve. This might cause pain when you are chewing.
- A severe crack might split your tooth into two separate sections. This usually requires immediate attention.
What to Do Immediately?
Here are quick steps to minimize pain and prevent further damage when you have a broken tooth:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Apply pressure with gauze if there’s bleeding.
- Use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling.
- Avoid chewing on the broken tooth.
- Save any broken pieces if possible. An emergency dentist in Auburn may be able to reattach them.
How an Emergency Dentist Can Help?
An emergency dentist in Auburn will examine the damage and take the necessary steps. Here’s what they may do:
Dental Bonding
If you’ve lost only a small portion of enamel, you might need only dental bonding. The dentist will use a tooth-colored resin and curing light to reshape the tooth. It’s fast, painless, and gives your tooth a natural look.
Dental Crown
A crown is a personalized cap that covers your fractured tooth, shielding it from additional damage and restoring its function. A temporary crown is usually installed until you get your permanent crown.
Root Canal
Has the crack extended to your nerve? Then, you may require a root canal. The dentist will remove the infected pulp, seal the tooth, and put a crown to reinforce it. You can also preserve your natural teeth.
Tooth Extraction
Sometimes, your tooth is beyond repair due to the extent of the fracture, particularly if it reaches below the gum line. Then, you need a complete tooth extraction. Explore alternatives such as dental implants or bridges to replace your teeth.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait?
A broken tooth is more than a cosmetic problem. Open cracks or exposed nerves are an open invitation to bacteria. They may infect your tooth pulp and cause an abscess.
Over time, even a small fracture can widen and become painful, making it difficult for you to eat and talk comfortably.
If you are currently dealing with a broken tooth, don’t delay seeking care. Quick treatment will save your tooth and you from unnecessary agony. Just contact your regular dentist or look for an emergency dentist who can give you the necessary care wherever you need it.
Are you ready to safeguard your smile? Contact us today for a consultation.
