Chipped or Broken Tooth
We do our best to repair a broken tooth the same day with bonding, a crown, or other restoration, scheduling permitting.
A chip through just the enamel is usually the least urgent; if the break exposes yellow dentin underneath or reaches pink or reddish inner nerve tissue (or causes noticeable pain to air or temperature), treat it as more urgent.
Step by step
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1
Save any broken piece if you can find it, and keep it moist (submerged in milk or your own saliva), bring it with you, it can sometimes be reattached.
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2
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water.
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3
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face near the area to reduce swelling.
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4
If a sharp edge is irritating your tongue or cheek, cover it with dental wax (if you have it) or a small piece of sugar-free gum as a temporary buffer. Never use super glue on a chipped tooth.
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5
Call us as soon as possible, timing matters more for a break that exposes the inner tooth structure.
the break exposes yellow dentin or pink/reddish nerve tissue, or causes noticeable pain to air or temperature.
A note on this guide: this is general guidance for a common situation, not a substitute for professional care. If something feels off or you're unsure, call us. Don't wait it out. If this is a true medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Other dental emergencies
Dealing with a dental emergency?
Call us right away. We're here to help you figure out the right next step.