What to Do If You Break or Knock Out a Tooth

A knocked-out or broken tooth may be a traumatic incident. Whether it was from biting something hard, an accident, or a sports injury, the panic and pain can be overwhelming. It helps to know what to do in such moments.

If you’re experiencing such an event, it’s important to react immediately. Calling an emergency dentist in Upper East Side should be a prompt step. 

In this guide, we’ll describe what to do in case you break or knock out a tooth, how to deal with the situation, and when you should go to a dental office on the Upper East Side.

Is a Broken Tooth an Emergency?

While not every dental accident requires immediate attention, it is worthwhile to at least determine how serious it is.

If there is nerve damage or severe pain with the fracture, it becomes an emergency. Waiting for treatment may lead to infection or even permanent damage; therefore, if you ever wondered, “Is a broken tooth an emergency?” the answer is almost always yes.

Here’s what you have to do:

• Rinse a chipped or cracked tooth with warm water, then apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Using a piece of clean gauze can help reduce bleeding.
• Pick up a completely knocked-out tooth by its crown, not its root, if you can find one.
• Rinse with water gently; do not scrub or remove any tissue that has attached. If at all feasible, put the tooth back in its socket. If not, visit your local dentist right away and put it in a cup with milk or saline.

What to Do in the Event of a Knocked-Out Tooth

It may take at least 30 to 60 minutes to see an Upper East Side emergency dentist, and the sooner you go, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

Take these actions if your tooth is knocked out:

• Take care when handling the tooth: To prevent harming the tooth’s root, just touch the crown, the portion that is visible in your mouth.
• Rinse gently: To get rid of any debris, rinse the teeth with milk or water if it’s dirty.
• Keep the tooth in a jar with milk or saline if you are unable to put it back in your mouth. Storing it in your mouth between your cheek and gums might also serve as a temporary fix if neither is available.
• Visit a nearby dental office: Inform your dentist over the phone that you will be there shortly.

Can I Put Orajel in the Hole in My Tooth?

If you’ve cracked or broken a tooth, you may be wondering if over-the-counter remedies like Orajel can help relieve the pain. Can I put Orajel in the hole in my tooth?

The short answer is yes, but only as a temporary measure to manage pain until you can see a dentist. Orajel, or similar topical pain relief products, can help numb the area, but they won’t fix the underlying problem.

If you want to use Orajel, make sure to use it sparingly and according to the package’s instructions.

Keep in mind that while it can relieve discomfort for a short time, it’s important to see a professional to address the damage and prevent infection or further complications.

When to Visit a Dental Office on the Upper East Side

You should visit a dental office in Upper East Side as soon as possible after experiencing a broken or knocked-out tooth. 

Even if you’ve managed to re-implant a knocked-out tooth or you’re not experiencing pain, it’s important to have a dentist examine the tooth. 

Delaying treatment could lead to permanent damage, infection, or the need for more invasive procedures like a root canal or extraction.

If you’re unable to see your regular dentist immediately, finding an emergency dentist near you can ensure that you get the care you need when you need it.

Keep Calm and Get Professional Help

Accidents happen, but when it comes to dental emergencies, it’s crucial to act quickly. Whether you’ve broken a tooth or knocked it out, the first steps you take can make a huge difference in preserving your dental health. Be sure to contact an emergency dentist on the Upper East Side right away for immediate care.

Trust Your Smile to the Best

If you’re dealing with a broken or knocked-out tooth, don’t wait, contact Lee Dental & Facial, your trusted dentist in Upper East Side, for fast, professional care.