One Endodontics | Dentist Near Me for Emergency Relief
Listen, we’ve been treating dental emergencies for years, and we can tell you that a broken tooth is one of those things that always seems to happen at the worst possible moment. You’re enjoying dinner with family, biting into an apple, or maybe you had a little accident during your weekend basketball game. Suddenly, you realize something’s not right in your mouth.
If you’re reading this with a broken tooth right now, take a deep breath. We know it’s scary, but you’re going to be okay. Let us walk you through exactly what you need to do, just like we would if you were sitting in our chair here in Sterling, VA.
What Actually Causes Teeth to Break?
You know, patients ask us this all the time. The truth is, our teeth are incredibly strong, but they’re not indestructible. We see broken teeth from all sorts of situations. Sometimes it’s something obvious like a sports injury or a fall. Other times, it’s as simple as biting down on a piece of ice or trying to open a package with your teeth (please don’t do that, by the way).
As we get older, our teeth naturally become more brittle. If you have large fillings, those can actually weaken the tooth structure over time. And if you’re someone who grinds their teeth at night, well, that constant pressure can eventually lead to fractures.
Here’s Exactly What You Should Do Right Now
When we get an emergency call about a broken tooth, the first thing we tell patients is to stay calm. We know that’s easier said than done, but panicking won’t help. Let us give you the same step-by-step guidance and specific tips we give our patients.
Step 1: Take a Good Look at What Happened
Go to a mirror and gently examine the damage. Is it just a small chip, or can you see deeper into the tooth? Are you seeing any pink or red tissue? This information is crucial when you call our office because it helps us understand how urgently you need to be seen.
Step 2: Clean Your Mouth Gently
Mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gently rinse your mouth. This isn’t just to clean things up, it actually helps reduce bacteria and can provide some pain relief. Don’t swish too vigorously though, you don’t want to cause more damage.
Step 3: Save Any Pieces if You Can
If part of your tooth broke off, try to find it and save it. Put it in a small container with milk or even your own saliva. We know that sounds gross, but keeping it moist gives us the best chance of potentially reattaching it. The American Dental Association has found that this simple step can make a real difference in treatment outcomes.
Step 4: Manage Your Pain
Over-the-counter ibuprofen is usually your best bet because it helps with both pain and swelling. Follow the dosage on the bottle. You can also apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek for about 15 minutes at a time. Just don’t put ice directly on your tooth, that can actually make the pain worse.
Step 5: Protect Yourself From Sharp Edges
If the break created any sharp edges, you can cover them with sugar-free gum or even a small piece of gauze. The last thing you want is to cut your tongue or the inside of your cheek. Trust us, that just adds insult to injury.
Step 6: Be Smart About What You Eat and Drink
We know you might want that cup of coffee or a cold drink, but extreme temperatures are going to hurt right now. Stick to room temperature liquids and soft foods. And please, chew on the other side of your mouth if you can.
Step 7: Call Our Office Immediately
This is the most important step. Don’t wait until Monday if this happens on a weekend. Don’t tough it out and hope it gets better. Traumatic dental injuries need professional attention, often the same day they occur.
What Are My Treatment Options?
Today’s treatments for broken teeth are better than ever. Small chips can often be smoothed out or filled, while larger breaks may require a crown to protect the tooth. If the damage reaches the pulp (the tooth’s inner tissue), a root canal may be necessary, but modern procedures are fast, effective, and often completed in a single visit.
One Endodontics | Dentist Near Me for Emergency Relief in Sterling, VA
A broken tooth can feel stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. At our Sterling office, we specialize in urgent care and saving natural teeth whenever possible. The key is acting quickly. Follow the steps we outlined and come see us right away. We’ve helped many patients restore their smiles—and we’re ready to help you too.
