What to do if tooth breaks
A broken tooth needs protection from further force and an examination of its enamel, dentine, pulp, and root.
The short answer
A broken tooth should be protected from further force, and a dentist should assess the enamel, dentine, pulp, and root as soon as practical. Treatment may involve smoothing, bonded composite, a crown, root canal treatment, or removal depending on the fracture.
What is the direct answer?
What does this question mean?
A chip may involve enamel only, while a deeper crack can expose dentine or the pulp containing nerves and blood vessels. Pain on biting, temperature sensitivity, mobility, or bleeding can indicate deeper injury.
What can you do next?
Rinse gently, save any broken fragment in clean milk or saline, and cover a sharp edge with dental wax or sugar-free gum. Eat soft foods on the opposite side and do not glue the fragment or chew hard objects.
When should you seek dental care?
Seek urgent dental care for facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain, a displaced tooth, or injury to the jaw. A tooth with exposed pulp, marked looseness, or a crack below the gumline needs prompt examination.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask how far the fracture extends, whether the pulp and root are involved, and whether the tooth can be restored. Ask which temporary protection is needed and how to avoid loading the damaged cusp.
Frequently asked questions
Can a chipped tooth grow back?
Enamel does not regenerate, but a dentist may repair a chip with bonded tooth-coloured composite or another restoration.
Should I keep the broken piece?
Yes, bring it in a clean container; the dentist can decide whether it is useful for assessment or repair.