Dental emergencies can strike at any time and knowing how to handle them can make a big difference in the outcome. A broken tooth is one of the most common dental emergencies and it's important to act quickly to prevent further damage and alleviate pain. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to take if you find yourself or a loved one in this unfortunate situation.
Immediate Steps to Take After Breaking a Tooth
Step 1 - Assess the Damage
Carefully check the extent of the break. If the break is minor and there’s no pain, you might be able to wait for a regular dentist appointment. However, if the break is severe and accompanied by pain or bleeding, it’s crucial to take immediate action.
Step 2 - Rinse Your Mouth
Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and remove any debris. Avoid using hot or cold water as this may increase pain sensitivity.
Step 3 - Manage Pain and Swelling
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also help manage the pain. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums or the broken tooth, as this old home remedy can actually harm your gum tissue.
Step 4 - Determine When you MUST Seek Emergency Dental Care
Immediate dental care is needed if you experience symptoms like:
- Severe pain that isn’t alleviated by over-the-counter medication
- Significant bleeding
- Loose pieces of the tooth in your mouth
Look for a practice like South Shore Dental Group which offers immediate emergency dental services to handle your dental crises and is equipped to deal with all types of dental emergencies.
Step 5 - Take Preventive Measures to Avoid Future Dental Emergencies
Once treated, consider prioritizing for regular dental check-ups. These can help prevent emergencies by addressing potential issues before they become severe. For those engaged in sports, wearing a mouthguard is essential to protect your teeth from injuries. Custom mouthguards offer the best protection and comfort, and can be easily obtained from your dentist.
Looking for an Emergency Dentist Near You?
Understanding what to do when a dental emergency occurs can save your tooth and prevent further complications. For all dental emergencies, consider South Shore Dental Group, where we prioritize your comfort and care. Our practice is not just conveniently located on Granite Street, near key landmarks and schools like Monatiquot Kindergarten Center and Braintree High School, but also offers the peace of mind that comes from being close to home without the need to commute into Boston.
We’ve been a trusted part of the Braintree and the nearby Plymouth & Norfolk County communities for over 30 years, serving areas from Quincy, Weymouth, Randolph, Brookline, Milton, Hingham, Norwell, Duxbury, and Cohasset. Our practice is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and friendly, understanding staff. Many of our patients, especially families, have been with us for decades, which speaks to how much kids and adults alike love our approach to dental care.
At South Shore Dental Group, we believe that “An All-in-One Solution for the Whole Family” isn’t just a motto, it's our commitment. Whether it's your child’s first dental appointment or your routine check-up, we ensure every visit is comfortable and stress-free. Don't just take our word for it—our patient reviews, available on our website and Google My Business, reflect the high standards of care and commitment we dedicate to every individual.
For reliable, comprehensive, and quick emergency dental services that keep your family’s needs at heart, choose South Shore Dental Group. Schedule your visit today at (781) 843-7800 and experience why we’re the preferred dental care provider in Norfolk County!
