Managing a Broken Tooth Until the Dentist Arrives

A broken tooth is a dental emergency that requires swift action. Whether the result of a fall, sports injury, or biting into something hard, a fractured or chipped tooth can be painful and leave the inner layers of the tooth vulnerable to infection or further damage. While only a dentist can fully treat a broken tooth, there are important steps you can take immediately to protect the area and minimize complications.

This guide explains how to manage a broken tooth effectively until you reach professional care—keeping your pain in check and reducing the risk of further damage.

Identify the Type of Break

Before taking action, determine the severity of the break:

Minor chip: A small piece of enamel breaks off, usually without pain.

Cracked tooth: A vertical or horizontal fracture, which may cause pain while chewing.

Broken tooth with nerve exposure: Significant break that exposes the pulp or nerve, often accompanied by sharp pain or bleeding.

Knocked-out fragment: A larger piece of the tooth has detached but is intact and recoverable.

Knowing the type of break helps you choose the right first aid steps.

First Aid Steps for a Broken Tooth

1. Rinse the Mouth Gently

Start by rinsing the mouth with warm water to remove blood, debris, or tooth fragments. This helps clean the area and reduces the risk of infection.

2. Stop Any Bleeding

If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the area using sterile gauze or a clean cloth. Hold it in place for 10–15 minutes or until bleeding subsides.

3. Save Any Tooth Fragments

If a piece of the tooth has broken off and you can find it, rinse it with water (no soap or chemicals) and store it in milk or the person’s saliva. Bring the fragment to the dentist—it may be possible to reattach it.

4. Protect the Tooth

To shield the broken area and reduce sensitivity, cover it with sugar-free gum, a piece of wax, or temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies). This can help prevent pain from air exposure or contact with food.

5. Reduce Swelling and Pain

Apply a cold compress to the cheek near the broken tooth to control swelling. Use over-the-counter pain relief like ibuprofen or acetaminophen if needed. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum, as it can cause burns.

6. Avoid Using the Affected Tooth

Refrain from chewing on the broken side. Stick to soft foods and liquids until you see the dentist. Avoid extreme hot or cold items that could trigger sensitivity or pain.

What to Avoid

Don’t probe the area with fingers or sharp objects.

Don’t use glue or adhesives to reattach fragments.

Don’t ignore persistent pain, swelling, or signs of infection.

Avoid acidic or sugary foods, which can irritate exposed tooth layers.

When to Seek Immediate Dental Care

Even if the break seems minor, prompt evaluation is essential. Call McLevin Dental Clinic right away if:

The tooth is causing severe pain or sensitivity

A large portion of the tooth is missing

There’s visible pulp exposure (reddish tissue inside the tooth)

Bleeding won’t stop

The tooth has loosened or moved out of place

Swelling is increasing or spreading to the jaw or neck

Waiting too long increases the risk of infection, permanent tooth loss, or more complex and costly treatment.

How Dentists Treat Broken Teeth

At McLevin Dental Clinic, treatment for a broken tooth is tailored to the injury:

Minor chips: Smoothed out or repaired with composite resin bonding

Moderate fractures: Reconstructed with fillings, inlays, or crowns

Deep breaks with nerve exposure: May require root canal therapy followed by a crown

Severely damaged teeth: Extracted if beyond repair, followed by replacement options like implants or bridges

X-rays and a detailed exam help determine the best course of action.

Preventing Future Tooth Breaks

Use a mouthguard during sports or physical activities

Avoid chewing hard items like ice, popcorn kernels, or pens

Never use teeth as tools to open packaging or hold objects

Address grinding or clenching with a custom nightguard

Keep up with regular dental checkups to spot weak spots before they fracture

Conclusion

A broken tooth can be painful, stressful, and dangerous if not handled properly. With the right first aid, you can stabilize the injury and prevent further harm until you reach a dental professional. Quick thinking—like rinsing, protecting the area, and avoiding pressure—can make a huge difference in the outcome.

If you or your child suffers a broken tooth, McLevin Dental Clinic is ready to provide urgent, expert care. Contact the clinic immediately for guidance, fast treatment, and peace of mind.