A broken tooth is a dental emergency that demands prompt attentionespecially when the damage is severe enough to expose the tooths nerve. Also known as dental pulp exposure, this condition is not only painful but also carries a high risk of infection and permanent tooth loss if not treated quickly. At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, we understand how distressing this type of injury can be and are prepared to provide immediate and compassionate care to preserve your oral health.
In this blog, well walk you through what happens when a tooth breaks and exposes the nerve, how to respond in the moment, and when to seek emergency dental treatment to protect your smile.
What Is Nerve Exposure in a Broken Tooth?
The innermost layer of a tooththe pulpcontains nerves and blood vessels that keep the tooth alive and responsive. When trauma or severe decay breaks through the protective layers of enamel and dentin, the pulp becomes exposed. This results in sharp pain, intense sensitivity, and a high vulnerability to bacterial infection.
Signs your broken tooth may involve nerve exposure include:
Sudden, intense tooth pain
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet substances
Visible red or pink tissue in the center of the tooth
Bleeding from within the tooth
Pain that worsens with breathing or airflow over the tooth
Step-by-Step First Aid for a Broken Tooth with Nerve Exposure
If youve suffered dental trauma or a fracture that exposes the nerve, take these immediate steps to minimize pain and protect the area until professional care is available.
1. Control Bleeding
If the injury involves bleeding gums or surrounding tissues, gently apply sterile gauze or a clean cloth and hold it in place with light pressure for 1015 minutes. Avoid pressing directly on the exposed nerve.
2. Rinse with Warm Salt Water
Rinse your mouth gently with a solution of warm water and salt. This helps to remove debris and reduce the risk of infection. Do not swish forcefully, as this can worsen pain and irritation.
3. Protect the Exposed Nerve
Covering the exposed area can provide temporary relief and prevent contaminants from reaching the nerve. If available, use dental cement or a temporary dental filling material from a pharmacy. If thats not an option, a small piece of clean sugar-free gum or wax can offer protection.
Avoid using aspirin directly on the tooth, as it can burn the tissue and worsen the damage.
4. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help control inflammation and reduce pain until you receive dental care. Always follow dosing instructions carefully, and avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks.
5. Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side
Protect the injured tooth from further trauma by avoiding chewing or biting on that side of the mouth. Stick to soft, lukewarm foods that dont aggravate the nerve or surrounding tissues.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
Nerve exposure is a true dental emergency. It will not resolve on its own and must be treated professionally to prevent infection, abscess, or permanent tooth loss. Call McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough immediately if you experience any of the following:
Visible nerve or pulp tissue after a tooth breaks
Persistent, throbbing pain
Sensitivity that does not subside
Swelling in the gum, cheek, or jaw
Fever or signs of infection
Our team provides same-day emergency appointments to stabilize the tooth, relieve pain, and begin necessary treatment.
Professional Treatment for Nerve Exposure
The treatment for a broken tooth with nerve exposure depends on the severity of the injury. Common options include:
Pulp Capping (if exposure is minimal and the nerve is still healthy): A protective dressing is placed over the exposed pulp to promote healing and prevent infection.
Root Canal Therapy: If the pulp is damaged or infected, a root canal is performed to remove the nerve tissue, clean the canal, and seal the tooth.
Dental Crown: After the nerve is treated, a crown is often used to restore strength, function, and appearance to the tooth.
Tooth Extraction: In cases where the damage is too extensive to repair, the tooth may need to be removed and replaced with an implant or bridge.
At McLevin Dental, we use advanced imaging and gentle techniques to assess the injury and develop a personalized treatment plan that prioritizes long-term health and comfort.
Preventing Future Tooth Injuries
While not all accidents can be avoided, you can reduce your risk of nerve exposure and other dental trauma by following these guidelines:
Wear a custom mouthguard during sports or physical activity
Avoid biting down on hard objects such as ice, pens, or popcorn kernels
Dont use your teeth to open packages or bottles
Maintain strong oral hygiene to prevent decay and weakening of teeth
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and early detection of vulnerable areas
Trust McLevin Dental for Emergency Tooth Care in Scarborough
A broken tooth with exposed nerve tissue is painful and urgentbut with the right care, it can be treated effectively. At McLevin Dental Clinic, our experienced team provides fast, expert relief to help you recover and restore your oral health with confidence.