Is A Broken Tooth A Dental Emergency?

When it comes to dental issues, it can sometimes be difficult to determine what constitutes a dental emergency. One common concern that patients often have is a broken tooth. While a broken tooth may not always require immediate attention, there are certain cases where seeking prompt dental care is crucial. In this blog post, we will explore whether a broken tooth is considered a dental emergency and provide you with some guidance on what steps to take if you find yourself in this situation. 

Signs that indicate a dental emergency

A broken tooth can vary in severity, and it's important to understand the signs that indicate a dental emergency. If you experience any of the following symptoms along with a broken tooth, it is crucial to seek immediate dental care:

1. Severe pain: If you are experiencing intense pain in the broken tooth or the surrounding area, it may be a sign of nerve damage or an infection.
2. Bleeding: If your broken tooth is accompanied by bleeding that doesn't stop or excessive blood in your saliva, it is essential to seek immediate attention.
3. Difficulty chewing or speaking: A broken tooth can affect your ability to chew or speak properly. If you are experiencing significant difficulty in these areas, it is recommended to see a emergency dentist as soon as possible. 

Non-emergency situations 

Not all cases of a broken tooth require immediate attention. In some cases, you may be able to wait a few days before seeing a dentist. Here are some non-emergency situations where you can wait to seek dental care: 

1. Minor chips: If you have a minor chip in your tooth that doesn't cause pain or discomfort, you may be able to wait until your next scheduled dental appointment.
2. No pain or sensitivity: If your broken tooth doesn't cause any pain or sensitivity, it may not require immediate attention. However, it is still important to have it evaluated by a dentist to prevent further damage or complications.
3. Cosmetic concerns: If the broken tooth is purely a cosmetic concern and doesn't affect your oral function or cause any discomfort, you may choose to wait for a dental appointment.

Immediate actions to take 

If you determine that your broken tooth requires immediate attention, there are some steps you can take before seeing a dentist:

1. Rinse your mouth: Gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to help clean the broken tooth and soothe any discomfort.
2. Manage pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any pain or discomfort until you can see a dentist.
3. Protect the tooth: If possible, cover the broken tooth with dental wax or sugarless gum to protect it from further damage.

Seeking dental care

Regardless of whether your broken tooth is considered a dental emergency or not, it is always recommended to seek dental care. Even minor chips or cracks can lead to more significant problems if left untreated. Your dentist will assess the severity of the break and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include dental bonding, a dental crown, or in severe cases, tooth extraction.

Get in touch with us today!

If you have a broken tooth or any other dental concern, don't hesitate to reach out to Dr. Jarvis Owens at Legacy Dental Co. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the highest quality dental care. Contact us today at (281) 488-8463 to schedule an appointment and let us help you restore your smile.