Broken Tooth? Your Emergency Dentist in Renton Can Help!
The health and appearance of your teeth is important, which is why you take the time each day to properly care for them while visiting your dentist in Renton regularly. However, despite your best efforts to protect your smile, you have had a tooth break. When the unexpected happens, you need to call your emergency dentist right away to have it treated to prevent the need for an extraction.
Why Did My Tooth Break?
Today, teeth are fracturing and breaking in record numbers for various reasons, such as from trauma or injury to the mouth, which is why an athletic mouthguard is important when playing sports. However, they can also break if they have a weakened structure, such as due to decay or a large filling. Eventually, the weak tooth will break when you bite on a piece of food.
The breaks can range in severity, from small fractures that cause no pain to significant cracks that extend below the gum line. No matter how severe the damage, you need to contact your emergency dentist in Renton right away to have it repaired. If you wait too long, an infection can develop, and the tooth may need to be removed.
What Can I Do for a Broken Tooth?
While you wait for your dental appointment, there are several things you can do at home to help manage any pain or discomfort. The tooth will need to be kept clean. You can rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help disinfect the area. If bleeding has occurred, bite on a piece of gauze until it subsides. Then, apply a cold compress to the outside of the face to minimize swelling. If there is any pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever. It is best to avoid placing pressure or chewing on the tooth until after it has been repaired.
Can My Tooth Be Saved?
In most cases, your tooth can be saved if the break does not extend past the gum line and if you receive care quickly. For minor breaks, like a chip or small crack, it can often be treated using a composite resin material. However, if the break is significant, a custom-made dental crown may need to be placed over the tooth. This not only restores its integrity, health, and function, but it’s appearance as well.
Even with quick treatment, sometimes a tooth cannot be saved from an extraction, such as if the root has cracked. If this is the case, your dentist will discuss tooth replacement options to fill the empty space.
Call Your Emergency Dentist Right Away
If you have had a tooth break, do not wait to call your dentist. Protect it from additional damage with a same-day appointment.
About Dr. Sam DK Kim
Dr. Sam DK Kim is a trusted dentist in the area for comprehensive care. Due to his advanced training, he specializes in prosthetic dentistry. In addition to rehabilitating the health of the teeth, he provides solutions to treat tooth loss and dental emergencies. If you have a broken tooth, do not wait. Contact SDK Dental Care today for an appointment.
