A cracked tooth may occur suddenly. Either due to biting hard food or an accident, it’s stressful. But keeping calm and acting immediately will avoid further harm. Above all, you must call an emergency dentist immediately. In the meantime, observe the following crucial steps in order to safeguard your tooth and alleviate pain.
Step 1: Gently Rinse Your Mouth
First, rinse your mouth with warm salt water. This makes it clean. Salt water kills bacteria and stops infection. Don’t use mouthwash containing alcohol, as it stings.
Step 2: Save Any Broken Pieces
If you are able to locate the fractured tooth piece, gently pick it up. Put it in a small container. Cover it with milk, saliva, or saline. This keeps it moist and safe. Carry the pieces to your emergency dentist in St. Charles. He or she might be able to reattach it.
Step 3: Apply Gauze if Bleeding
Then, stop any bleeding. Press gently on the site with a clean piece of gauze. Hold for 10 minutes. If bleeding persists, use a wet tea bag. The tannins in tea stop bleeding more quickly.
Step 4: Reduce Swelling with a Cold Compress
Swelling is usual after a broken tooth. To minimize it, place a cold compress against your cheek. Use a wrapped ice pack or a bag of frozen peas. Hold for 15 minutes, then rest. Repeat every hour to alleviate pain and swelling.
Step 5: Control Pain in a Safe Manner
To alleviate pain, take over-the-counter pain medication. Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed. Do not use aspirin, as it can cause bleeding. Nevertheless, never put medicine on the gums or on a broken tooth. That will irritate or burn them.
Step 6: Cover Sharp Edges
Occasionally, a broken tooth has sharp edges. They will cut your tongue or cheek. To guard your mouth, cover the tooth with dental wax. You can get it at most pharmacies. If you don’t have wax, sugar-free gum will do temporarily. Chew gently and don’t bite on the broken tooth.
Step 7: Be Mindful of Foods and Beverages
Until you visit an emergency dentist, beware of your diet. Steer clear of hard, crunchy, or sticky foods. Avoid using extreme temperatures—hot and cold can hurt. Consume soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. Drink water in place of sweet or acidic beverages.
Step 8: Don’t Wiggle the Tooth
If the tooth is loose, don’t touch it. Wiggling or playing with it can do more harm. It might make the break worse or cause more pain. Instead, just keep the area clean and let your emergency dentist handle further treatment.
Step 9: Call an Emergency Dentist Right Away
Time is of the essence with a broken tooth. Call your emergency dentist right away. Most dental offices have same-day or after-hours appointments. Describe your symptoms precisely. Mention any pain, swelling, or visible nerves. The more information you provide, the sooner they can assist.
Step 10: Follow-Up Is Important
Follow all dental care instructions after the emergency visit. The dentist can suggest a crown, filling, or root canal. Keep all appointments and do as they instruct you to heal. Proper care now protects your smile in the long run.
Prevention Tips for the Future
Even though accidents do occur, there are some habits that can minimize the likelihood of chipping a tooth:
- Wear a sports mouthguard
- Don’t bite ice, hard candy, or pens
- Never use your teeth as tools to open packages or the like
- Stay in regular dental checkups
By doing these things, you can safeguard your teeth and prevent emergencies.
Don’t Delay, Call an Emergency Dentist
A broken tooth is generally associated with severe pain and discomfort. Additionally, casually handling such a situation might lead to major dental complications. Taking the proper steps early makes a difference. Protect the area, manage pain, and call your emergency dentist immediately. With the appropriate care, you’ll be back to smiling in no time.
