Breaking a tooth can be both painful and alarming. Whether it happens while biting into something hard, during a fall, or as the result of dental decay, it’s essential to take quick, informed action. At Concord Family Dental in Hammond, we specialize in comprehensive care and offer immediate assistance for dental emergencies, including broken teeth. If you're ever faced with this situation, knowing what to do can make all the difference in your outcome.

Step One: Stay Calm and Evaluate the Damage

The first thing to do when a tooth breaks is to stay calm. Panicking won’t help the situation and may increase your discomfort. Rinse your mouth with warm water to cleanse the area and apply a cold compress to the cheek to reduce any swelling. If bleeding occurs, gently bite down on gauze or a clean cloth to help stop it.

If pain or sensitivity is present, avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods, and do not chew on the affected side until you can visit the dentist.

Step Two: Contact an Emergency Dentist in Hammond, LA

The next and most important step is to contact an emergency dentist in Hammond, LA. Time is often a critical factor when dealing with a broken tooth. A prompt visit can help prevent further damage, infection, or the need for more invasive procedures.

At Concord Family Dental, we offer emergency dental appointments to ensure that patients get fast, professional care when they need it most. Whether your tooth is chipped, cracked, or severely broken, our team is prepared to assess and treat the problem quickly.

Step Three: Save Any Broken Pieces

If possible, retrieve and save any broken pieces of the tooth. Place them in a container with milk or saliva to keep the fragment hydrated. Bring the piece with you to your dental appointment, as it may be possible for the dentist to reattach it.

This is especially useful if a tooth fractures near the root or if a dental restoration, like a crown or veneer, has come loose.

Why Do Teeth Break?

There are several reasons a tooth might break, and knowing the cause can help prevent it from happening again:

• Biting on hard substances (like popcorn kernels or ice)
• Grinding or clenching (bruxism)
• Weakness from untreated cavities
• Previous dental work that has worn down
• Injuries or accidents
• Aging dental restorations

In many cases, patients with misaligned bites or jaw tension may unknowingly be putting excess pressure on certain teeth. If you’ve experienced repeated damage, visiting an orthodontist in Hammond may help realign your bite and prevent future breakage.

Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth

The right treatment depends on the location and extent of the damage. At Concord Family Dental, we offer a range of solutions tailored to your specific needs.

1. Dental Bonding
For minor chips and cosmetic cracks, bonding with composite resin may be all that’s needed. This process restores the shape and function of the tooth quickly and painlessly.

2. Dental Crowns
More severe breaks may require a crown to cover and protect the remaining structure. Crowns restore durability and appearance, especially for molars or teeth that have large fillings.

3. Root Canal Therapy
If the fracture exposes the tooth’s pulp or leads to infection, a root canal may be necessary. This procedure removes the damaged tissue, seals the tooth, and is often followed by crown placement.

4. Tooth Extractions in Hammond, LA
In cases where the tooth is too damaged to repair, extraction might be the best course of action. Fortunately, we offer several restorative options afterward, including implants, bridges, and dentures.

Don’t Ignore the Signs

A cracked or broken tooth may not always be painful right away, but it should never be ignored. Even small fractures can worsen over time, leading to more serious issues like decay, infection, or nerve damage.

If you have persistent discomfort or sensitivity to temperature and pressure, it's essential to schedule an appointment. Waiting too long could complicate your treatment options and increase costs.

Preventing Future Damage

To help prevent a future dental emergency, consider the following:

• Avoid chewing on hard objects
• Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night
• See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings
• Don’t delay necessary dental treatments
• Address misalignment with an orthodontist in Hammond

If your broken tooth was due to trauma or you’re prone to dental issues, we’ll work with you to develop a custom prevention plan.

If you need emergency care or suspect your tooth may be at risk, Concord Family Dental in Hammond is here to help. We offer expert, compassionate care for broken teeth and a full range of restorative and cosmetic services to bring back your smile’s function and appearance.