Follow These Dos And Don'ts If You Ever Break A Tooth

Breaking a tooth is a tragedy that most people prefer to avoid, but it is likely that at some point in your life, it will happen to you. When you do break a tooth, the way you handle the situation will play a big role in determining how well your dentist can repair the damage and whether or not you end up losing the tooth. Keep these dos and don'ts in mind so you're prepared if you ever break a tooth.

Do: Always contact the dentist.

If you only break a small piece of your tooth and are not in any pain, you may be tempted to skip the call to the dentist. But even the smallest crack can leave your tooth rough, making it easier for bacteria to grab onto the surface and eventually cause decay. It's important to see the dentist for even the smallest of breaks so that they can -- at the very least -- file down the rough part.

Don't: Throw away the broken portion.

If there is a piece of tooth that breaks off and you have it in hand, do not get rid of it! Your dentist may be able to reattach the broken portion. Store the broken piece of tooth in some milk until you're able to get to the dentist.

Do: Contact the emergency dentist for major breaks.

If the tooth in question is causing you a lot of pain, you are bleeding, or the crack extends beneath the surface of your gums, then contact an emergency dentist if your normal dentist's office is closed. Failure to seek prompt treatment may make it harder for the dentist to save your tooth, and it also puts you at risk for infection.

Don't: Suffer in pain without doing anything about it.

The pain from a severely broken tooth can be quite serious, but there are plenty of ways to ease your pain. Take a dose of ibuprofen or naproxen to dull the pain. You can also put dental wax, which is sold in most pharmacies, around the broken tooth to create a barrier between it and your saliva. Avoid drinking or eating on that side of your mouth until you're able to see the dentist.

Do: Explore your treatment options.

Ask your dentist what all of your treatment options are. Common treatments for cracked or broken teeth include bonding, crowns, and veneers. Your dentist can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option for your particular situation.