Dental First Aid: What to Do in Case of a Broken Tooth or Lost Tooth

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them. Whether it’s a sports injury, an accidental fall, or biting into something too hard, a broken or lost tooth requires immediate attention. Knowing what to do in these situations can make all the difference in saving your tooth and preventing further complications. Here’s your step-by-step guide to handling a dental emergency.

What to Do for a Broken or Chipped Tooth

A broken or chipped tooth can cause pain and sensitivity. This requires dental first aid and quick action can help minimize the damage:

1. Rinse Your Mouth: Use warm water to clean the affected area gently.
2. Save Any Broken Pieces: If possible, collect any fragments and store them in a clean container.
3. Apply a Cold Compress: To reduce swelling and pain, hold a cold compress against your cheek for 10-15 minutes.
4. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If needed, take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage discomfort.
5. See Your Dentist ASAP: Even a small chip can lead to bigger issues if left untreated. Contact Sandia Heights Dental Care immediately for an appointment.

What to Do If a Tooth Gets Knocked Out

A knocked out tooth (avulsed tooth) is a serious dental emergency and requires dental first aid, but if managed correctly, it can be saved:

1. Get to the Dentist Immediately: The best chance of saving the tooth is within 30–60 minutes, so seek emergency dental care right away.
2. Pick Up the Tooth by the Crown: Avoid touching the root to prevent damage.
3. Rinse Gently if Dirty: Use only water to clean the tooth. Do not scrub or remove any attached tissue.
4. Try to Reinsert the Tooth: If possible, gently place the tooth back into its socket and hold it in place.
5. Keep the Tooth Moist: If reinsertion isn’t possible, store the tooth in milk, saline solution, or inside your cheek to keep it moist.

When to Seek Immediate Dental Care

Some dental injuries may not seem urgent but still require prompt treatment. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience:

1. Signs of infection, such as swelling, pus, or fever.
2. Severe pain or bleeding that won’t stop.
3. A loose tooth after an accident.
4. Damage to dental restorations (crowns, bridges, veneers).

Preventing Dental Injuries

While accidents happen, you can take steps to protect your teeth:

• Wear a mouthguard during sports and physical activities.
• Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, or non-food items.
• Don’t use your teeth as tools to open packages or cut things.
• Maintain regular dental check-ups to keep your teeth strong and healthy.

Emergency Dental Care You Can Trust

At Sandia Heights Dental Care, Dr. Monique León and her team are here to provide expert, compassionate care when you need it most. If you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency, don’t wait—call us immediately or visit our website to schedule an urgent appointment.

Your smile is worth protecting—know what to do in a dental emergency and get the care you need fast!

Schedule Your Emergency Dental Appointment Today!

If you’re facing a dental emergency, don’t panic—help is just a call away. Contact Sandia Heights Dental Care now to get expert treatment and restore your smile as quickly as possible!