A broken tooth can happen suddenly—whether you bite down on something hard, take a fall, or experience a sports injury. No matter how it happens, a chipped or broken tooth is a dental emergency that needs quick attention. While it can be unsettling, knowing what to do right away can protect your smile and help your dentist repair the damage effectively.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
Not all broken teeth are the same. Some cracks are small and cosmetic, while others can reach the inner layers of the tooth where nerves and blood vessels are located. If you feel pain, sensitivity, or see visible damage, it’s best to assume the break is serious. Look in a mirror to check the extent of the injury, but avoid touching the area too much. If a large piece of the tooth has broken off or there’s bleeding, stay calm and move to the next step.
Step 2: Rinse and Protect the Area
Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clear away debris. If there’s bleeding, apply light pressure with a piece of clean gauze for about 10 minutes or until it stops. To prevent swelling, you can hold a cold compress or ice pack against your cheek for short intervals.
If you find the broken piece of tooth, save it. Place it in milk, saline solution, or even your saliva. Your dentist may be able to bond it back in place if it’s preserved properly and seen quickly.
Step 3: Avoid Further Damage
Until you can see your dentist, try to protect the remaining tooth. Avoid biting or chewing on that side of your mouth, and stick to soft foods. If the tooth has a sharp or jagged edge, cover it with dental wax (available at most pharmacies) or a small piece of sugarless gum to prevent it from cutting your tongue or cheek.
Step 4: See Your Dentist as Soon as Possible
Even if your tooth doesn’t hurt, you should schedule an emergency dental visit right away. Small cracks can worsen, and exposed inner layers can lead to infection or decay. Your dentist will determine the best repair method—whether that’s bonding, a crown, or in severe cases, a root canal or extraction.
A broken tooth might feel like a disaster, but with quick, careful action, it doesn’t have to be. Protect the tooth, manage any pain, and see your dentist promptly to restore your smile and prevent future complications.
About the Author
Dr. Mike Rolfes is a 2017 graduate of the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine in Fort Lauderdale. He regularly completes continuing education courses to stay in the know, pursuing advanced coursework in topics like implant planning and restoration, cosmetic smile design, and more. Are you experiencing a dental emergency? We’d love to help. Schedule an appointment through our website or call our Port Orange office at (386) 761-5883.