Broken teeth are fairly common. This usually happens to a tooth with a previously weakened structure, whether from decay or bruxism (teeth grinding). Other causes can include a sports accident or other trauma—or simply chewing or biting something with too much force. If you do break a tooth, here’s what dentists recommend you do.

Don’t Panic

Some broken teeth cause a lot of pain, while others are barely noticeable. In either case, the situation is usually not an emergency. You should call your dentist right away, though, as an untreated broken tooth could result in more problems—and more pain—in the future.

Care for the Tooth

While you wait to see your dentist, rinse your mouth out with warm water and apply pressure to get any bleeding under control. If there are any visible cracks you can reach, apply temporary dental cement to prevent further damage. If you have the piece of broken tooth, place it in a small dish and cover it with milk, saline, or saliva. To address any pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen.

Visit Your Dentist

You should be able to see your dentist within a day or two of the break. Bring the broken piece with you, still covered in milk, to your appointment. In some cases, they may be able to reattach it. Explain to your dentist how it happened and inform them of your pain levels and any other symptoms you have. After doing a thorough exam, your dentist will make a treatment recommendation, which could range from a simple filling to a dental crown or root canal, depending on the cause and extent of the break.

Although rarely an emergency, there can be serious consequences to leaving a broken tooth untreated, including infection and tooth loss. By following the above tips and calling your dentist right away, you can avoid further complications. When residents of Dothan, AL, need dental work, they turn to the general dentistry practice of David A. Dauphin, DMD. This affordable dentist offers a full range of services, from bridges and crowns to teeth whitening and veneers. Whether you’ve got a broken tooth or just want to brighten your smile, call them at (334) 794-3727 to schedule an appointment. For more information, visit their website.