A broken or knocked-out tooth can happen when you least expect it. A fall, sporting injury, accident or even biting something hard can damage a tooth.
When this happens, it is easy to panic. However, knowing what to do can help protect the tooth until you can see an emergency dentist in Blacktown.
The first thing is to stay calm and arrange dental care as soon as possible.
What Should You Do If You Knock Out a Tooth?
If an adult tooth has been completely knocked out, try to find the tooth.
Hold it by the crown, which is the part that normally sits above the gum. Try not to touch the root.
If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or clean water. Do not scrub the tooth or remove any tissue that may still be attached to it.
If possible, place the tooth back into its socket carefully. Do not force it.
If you cannot put the tooth back into place, keep it moist in milk and take it with you to the dentist.
Time is important when a permanent tooth has been knocked out, so you should seek dental treatment as soon as possible.
What If a Child Knocks Out a Tooth?
Children can lose teeth during falls, sports and other accidents.
If a baby tooth is knocked out, do not try to put it back into the socket. This can affect the developing adult tooth underneath.
You should still arrange a dental examination so the dentist can check the mouth and make sure there are no other injuries.
If an adult tooth has been knocked out, the situation is different and should be treated as a dental emergency.
What Should You Do With a Broken Tooth?
A broken tooth should be checked by a dentist even if the pain is not severe.
Try to find any pieces of the tooth and take them with you to the appointment.
Avoid chewing on the damaged side of your mouth. If the tooth has a sharp edge, be careful when eating so that you do not cut your cheek or tongue.
A dentist will examine the tooth and determine whether it can be repaired.
Can a Broken Tooth Be Saved?
In many cases, a damaged tooth can be repaired.
The treatment depends on how badly the tooth has been damaged.
A small chip may only require a simple repair. A larger break may require a filling, crown or another type of treatment.
If the damage has reached the inside of the tooth, root canal treatment may be considered.
In some cases, the tooth may be too badly damaged to save and extraction may be recommended.
This is why it is important to have the tooth examined rather than assuming that it needs to be removed.
What If Your Tooth Is Cracked?
A cracked tooth can cause pain when you bite down or release your bite.
Some cracks are easy to see, while others may be difficult to notice.
You may also experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
Do not continue chewing on the tooth if you think it is cracked. Arrange an appointment with a dentist so the tooth can be assessed.
What If a Filling or Crown Falls Out?
A filling or crown can sometimes become loose or fall out.
If this happens, keep the restoration if you can and contact your dentist.
Try to keep the tooth clean and avoid chewing hard foods on that side.
The dentist can check whether the filling or crown can be replaced or whether the tooth needs further treatment.
What Can You Do About Pain Before Seeing an Emergency Dentist?
A damaged tooth may cause considerable pain.
You can rinse your mouth gently with clean water and keep the area as clean as possible.
If there is swelling, a cold pack placed on the outside of the face for a short period may help.
If you normally take pain relief and it is suitable for you, follow the instructions on the packet or ask a pharmacist for advice.
Do not put aspirin directly on the tooth or gum.
When Should You See an Emergency Dentist in Blacktown?
You should seek urgent dental care if you have:
- Severe tooth pain
- A knocked-out permanent tooth
- A badly broken tooth
- Significant swelling
- Bleeding that does not stop
- A dental injury after an accident
- Signs of infection
If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing because of swelling, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
What Happens at an Emergency Dental Appointment?
The dentist will first examine the damaged area.
An X-ray may be required to understand the extent of the injury.
Once the dentist knows what has happened, they can explain the available treatment options.
The immediate aim is usually to manage pain, protect the tooth and prevent the problem from becoming worse.
Further treatment may then be arranged if required.
Do Not Wait When a Tooth Is Damaged
A broken or knocked-out tooth needs attention, even if the pain appears to settle.
Getting advice quickly gives the dentist a better opportunity to assess the tooth and decide what treatment is suitable.
If you have damaged a tooth or are experiencing severe dental pain, contact an emergency dentist in Blacktown as soon as possible.
