Broken Tooth
Call (08) 9227 6468 for urgent care
Broken Tooth
Call (08) 9227 6468 for urgent care
What to do if you break or chip a tooth
A chipped or broken tooth can happen suddenly—from biting down on something hard to experiencing a fall or sports injury. Minor or severe, every break should be treated quickly to prevent infection, decay, or further damage.
Step 1: Assess the damage
The urgency of treatment depends on how much of the tooth is affected:
- Minor chip: May not be painful, but still requires dental attention to prevent future damage.
- Moderate to severe break: May expose the inner layers of the tooth, leading to sensitivity, pain, or bleeding, and should be treated promptly.
- If the tooth is broken due to trauma: You may also have injuries to surrounding soft tissues—check for cuts on the lips, cheeks, or tongue.
Step 2: Remove sharp fragments and protect your mouth
- Carefully rinse your mouth with lukewarm water to remove any tooth fragments.
- If you find a large piece of the broken tooth, store it in milk or saliva and bring it to your appointment—sometimes, it may be possible to reattach it.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent further damage.
Step 3: Control any bleeding
- Gently apply pressure to the affected area using a clean piece of gauze for about 20 minutes.
- If bleeding persists beyond this time, keep applying pressure and contact us immediately.
Step 4: Manage pain and sensitivity
- Over-the-counter pain relief can help ease discomfort.
- If the tooth feels sharp and is irritating your tongue or cheek, you can place orthodontic wax or sugar-free chewing gum over the sharp edge until you see us.
- Avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, as the exposed tooth may be more sensitive.
Why prompt treatment is important
A broken tooth is more vulnerable to decay, infection, and further breakage. It may seem minor at first, but dental problems only worsen when left untreated. Put off treatment, and a simple break can turn into the need for major dental work, like a root canal or even an extraction.
How Alma Dental Surgery can help
If you’ve broken a tooth, you don’t have to face it alone. At Alma Dental, your comfort comes first, and we’ll provide treatment options tailored to the extent of the damage. These may include:
- Dental bonding for small chips.
- Crowns for larger breaks to restore both function and appearance.
- Root canal treatment if the nerve is exposed or infected.
Don’t delay, book your appointment now
When a tooth is chipped or broken, acting quickly makes all the difference. Contact Alma Dental Surgery as soon as possible. Our friendly and experienced team will assess your tooth, relieve any discomfort, and restore your smile so you can get back to your day with confidence.
Call us on (08) 9227 6468 for prompt advice and emergency care. We can guide you over the phone and help you manage the situation until you’re able to see us in person.
* This page is for general information only and does not constitute medical or dental advice. In case of a serious injury, uncontrolled bleeding, or symptoms affecting your general health, seek emergency medical care immediately.
