What to Do If You Break a Tooth
Emergency Steps and Long-Term Care
Best Family Dentistry in Wichita, KS
A broken tooth can happen suddenly—biting into something hard, a sports accident, or even unnoticed grinding while you sleep. Regardless of how it happens, knowing what to do when you break a tooth can save you pain, money, and even your smile.
At YR Family Dentistry, we’ve helped countless patients in Wichita handle dental emergencies with expert care and compassion. Whether it’s a small chip or a severe break, taking the right steps quickly can make all the difference.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
A broken tooth can range from a minor surface crack to a severe fracture exposing the nerve. It’s important to assess the situation, but try not to panic. Common signs include:
- Pain or sensitivity
- Bleeding or swelling
- A visibly jagged edge or missing part of the tooth
If you’re unsure how serious it is, don’t wait. Contact an emergency dentist in Wichita KS to get evaluated as soon as possible.
Step 2: Rinse and Protect the Area
Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to remove debris and reduce the risk of infection. If the area is bleeding, apply gauze with light pressure.
To protect a sharp or jagged edge from cutting your tongue or cheek, cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum until you can be seen.
If you’ve saved the broken piece, store it in milk or saline and bring it to your appointment.
Step 3: Call YR Family Dentistry Immediately
Prompt care is essential. Our team provides fast, effective treatment for dental emergencies like broken or cracked teeth, helping patients of all ages return to comfort quickly.
Whether you’re dealing with trauma after sports, biting into something hard, or a broken restoration, our family dentist in Wichita KS 67205 can evaluate the damage and offer the best solution.
Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth
The right treatment depends on the location, severity, and whether the nerve is involved. At YR Family Dentistry, we offer a wide range of options to restore your tooth and prevent future damage.
1. Dental Fillings
If the damage is minimal and only involves a small portion of the enamel, a simple dental filling in Wichita KS may be all that’s needed to restore the tooth’s shape and protect it from further damage.
2. Dental Crowns
For moderate to severe fractures, a dental crown in Wichita KS is often the best long-term solution. A crown covers the entire tooth, restoring its function and protecting the remaining structure.
3. Root Canal Therapy
If the nerve has been exposed or infected, a root canal in Wichita KS may be necessary before placing a crown. This procedure relieves pain and prevents infection from spreading.
4. Tooth Extraction and Replacement
In cases where a tooth is beyond repair, tooth extraction in Wichita 67205 may be recommended. We offer natural-looking replacement options, including dental implants in Wichita KS and dentures in Wichita 67205, to help you regain full function and confidence.
What If It’s a Child’s Tooth?
If your child breaks a tooth—whether it’s a baby tooth or a permanent one—it’s essential to seek care immediately. As your trusted dentist for kids in Wichita KS, we’ll assess the injury, ease their discomfort, and protect their developing smile.
We also provide tips to avoid further injury, including custom sports guards and nighttime solutions for grinding.
Can Botox or Fillers Help?
It may surprise you, but Botox in Wichita 67205 and fillers in Wichita KS can be used to reduce clenching forces that contribute to tooth fractures. If your break was caused by chronic jaw tension or TMJ, we’ll discuss holistic strategies to protect your remaining teeth—including facial therapy to balance muscle function.
Preventing Future Breaks
Once your tooth has been repaired, here are steps you can take to avoid future problems:
- Address grinding and clenching: Ask us about nightguards or jaw tension relief options.
- Keep up with cleanings: Regular teeth cleanings in Wichita 67205 help detect weaknesses early.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects: Ice, pens, and popcorn kernels are common culprits.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Weak enamel and decay increase your risk of breaking a tooth.
If you're prone to dental issues or concerned about enamel loss, regular checkups with your general dentist in Wichita KS can keep you ahead of any problems.
Cosmetic and Functional Repair
For patients worried about aesthetics, our team offers advanced cosmetic dentistry to restore your smile. From clear aligners in Wichita KS to veneers in Wichita, we blend function with beauty to give you long-lasting results that look and feel natural.
We’ll help you choose the right option based on your goals, lifestyle, and budget—so your repaired tooth looks just like new.
Final Word: You’re Not Alone
Breaking a tooth can feel overwhelming, but with a compassionate dental team and fast action, it doesn’t have to derail your day—or your smile. At YR Family Dentistry, we’re proud to be your affordable dentist in Wichita 67205, offering expert care when you need it most.
Whether you’re looking for the best dentist in Wichita 67205, exploring smile improvements, or simply need help during a dental emergency, we’re here for you.
Call us today if you’ve broken a tooth—or want to prevent one. Your smile deserves it.
3801 North Ridge Road, Wichita, Kansas 67205, United States