Our Blog

A fractured tooth is a serious emergency dental situation in Nashville, TN, that requires immediate action. If not, you risk developing tooth decay, damaging the soft tissue around your teeth, and even experiencing localized pain. 

Handling the situation properly is crucial to preventing that and preserving your oral health. To do so, it can be very important to understand what to do immediately following the injury and when to get professional assistance. 

What to Do If You Break a Tooth

Taking immediate action is crucial to reduce pain and damage if you have fractured a tooth, no matter its location. Some immediate actions to take include:

1. Rinse Your Mouth  

Clean the area carefully to eliminate any available food debris or blood. Rinse with water, without swishing around too violently. 

You can also apply a warm water solution with a pinch of salt to reduce bacteria and relieve inflammation.   

2. Apply a Cold Compress  

Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Wrap it in a cloth to prevent your skin from freezing, and leave it on for 15-20 minutes.

3. Protect the Tooth 

If the tooth is sharp or jagged, it can cut your tongue or the inside of your mouth. To prevent lacerations, you can buy dental wax or sugarless gum at any pharmacy to protect the area until you can see an emergency dentist. 

4. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers 

Painkillers can help you manage extreme discomfort until you receive medical attention. Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or contact your primary care physician for specific instructions. 

Follow the label’s dosage recommendations. Aspirin can worsen bleeding, so avoid it.  

When to See an Emergency Dentist 

Not all fractured teeth are emergencies, but some situations require urgent care. 

• If you experience severe pain or bleeding, seeing a dentist immediately is crucial.
• Additionally, if the fracture is large and affects at least 50% of the surface of your tooth, seek immediate dental care. If not, you could risk developing tooth decay in the area, harming the most sensitive areas of your teeth, and experiencing extreme tooth pain.
• It’s also important to look for signs of infection, such as swelling, fever, or pus. If you notice any of these, visit an emergency dentist as soon as possible to prevent the infection from spreading.  

What to Expect During Your Visit to an Emergency Dentist 

When you go to an emergency dental clinic, we will assess the damage and go over the best course of action, including: 

• Dental Bonding: The dentist may apply tooth-colored resin to restore the shape of a tooth with a minor fracture.
• Crowns: If the fracture is severe, a crown might be the best action. It covers the tooth to keep it safe and help it work again.
• Root Canal: A root canal may be required to preserve the tooth if the fracture has damaged the tooth’s nerve. 

Find a Reliable Emergency Dental in Nashville, TN, to Restore Your Smile

Regardless of the cause—accident, trauma, or underlying decay—a broken tooth can be extremely uncomfortable and may lead to complications. By responding timely and appropriately, you can have a big impact on the outcome, possibly saving the tooth and lowering the chance of further problems.  

We’re qualified to accompany you through this process at Greenwood Local Dentistry and Orthodontics. Reach out and let’s successfully restore your beautiful smile!