What to Do When You Have a Broken Tooth
A broken tooth can be treated in a variety of ways. However, there are certain things that you should do before arriving at the dentist to restore the health and appearance of your broken tooth. This review discusses how to handle a broken tooth properly to help ensure that the issue does not worsen or cause more discomfort than necessary.
The five-step process to dealing with a broken tooth
During the phone call with the dentistry, the staff can help the patient determine whether it is best to visit the dentist right away or wait for a more opportune time. Regardless, it is important to keep the mouth clean and control the bleeding and discomfort before going to the dentist.
Call the dentist
Regardless of the severity of the broken tooth, it is important to call the dentist to find out the best course of action to take. Depending on the level of pain the patient is in and their symptoms, the dentist may recommend coming in right away for broken tooth treatment, or they can provide care instructions to help the patient control their symptoms until they can arrive at the dentist’s office at a more convenient time.
Clean the mouth
Keeping the mouth clean is the number-one goal with a broken tooth. Patients can do so by using a saltwater rinse several times a day and drinking water throughout the day to keep bacteria washed away. It is also important to avoid eating foods and drinks that contain a large amount of sugar and to practice good oral hygiene regularly.
Stop the bleeding
If there is any blood in the immediate aftermath after the broken tooth, then it is a sign that the patient may need to visit the dentist for emergency dental care. Minor bleeding can be controlled with the use of gauze applied to the affected tooth. Apply the gauze after cleaning the mouth.
Relieve the pain
Patients can relieve the pain of a broken tooth by taking over-the-counter pain relief medication (as directed). If the dentist recommends waiting a day or two before coming in, then stick to a diet of soft foods and foods and drinks that are room temperature to avoid irritation.
Visit the dentist
Do not neglect to visit the dentist after a broken tooth. Often, the initial symptoms go away, but it is still important to visit the dentist for restorative treatment even if there are no symptoms. Otherwise, the long-term health of the tooth could be in jeopardy.
Call our dental team today for broken tooth treatment
If you are in need of broken tooth treatment, then contact our dental practice today. We can assess your symptoms and help you determine the best course of action. We may recommend that you come into our office for prompt care if there is pain or excessive swelling, or we may provide you with at-home care instructions until you can come in at a more convenient time.
Are you considering broken tooth treatment in the Minnetonka area? Get more information at https://www.holgerdentalgroup.com.
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