Emergency Dental Care
Broken or Chipped Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth can range from a minor cosmetic issue to a situation requiring prompt care. Call us at 306.374.7272 and we'll help you determine next steps.
Types of tooth fractures
Not all broken teeth are the same. The extent of the fracture and which structures are involved will influence what treatment, if any, is needed.
Minor chip
A small piece of enamel breaks off, often with no pain. The tooth may have a rough edge but the inner structure is unaffected. This may not require urgent care, but it is worth having assessed to smooth the edge and prevent further damage.
Cracked tooth
A crack runs through the enamel and into the tooth, which may or may not extend toward the root. Cracked teeth can cause pain when biting or sensitivity to temperature. The crack may not be visible on an x-ray, making diagnosis more involved.
Larger break
A significant portion of the tooth breaks away. This may expose the inner dentin layer or even the tooth's nerve (pulp), causing sensitivity or pain. Prompt assessment is important to prevent infection and preserve as much of the tooth as possible.
Split tooth
A tooth that has split, often the result of an untreated crack, may not be salvageable as a whole unit. Treatment depends on how far the split extends and whether the root is involved.
Immediate steps after breaking a tooth
While you arrange to come in, the following steps can help manage the situation:
- 1
Rinse with warm water
Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and remove any debris.
- 2
Apply gauze if bleeding
If there is any bleeding from the gum or soft tissue around the tooth, apply gentle pressure with a clean piece of gauze or cloth until it stops.
- 3
Cover any sharp edge
If the broken tooth has a sharp edge that is irritating your tongue or cheek, dental wax (available at most pharmacies) or a small piece of sugarless gum can be used to cover it temporarily.
- 4
Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen, taken as directed, can help manage any discomfort while you wait for your appointment.
- 5
Save any fragments
If a piece of the tooth broke off, save it and bring it with you. In some cases, fragments can be used in the repair.
- 6
Call us
Contact us to describe what happened and arrange an assessment. We'll advise on urgency based on your symptoms.
Treatment options
The appropriate treatment depends on how much of the tooth is affected and whether the nerve has been involved. Your dentist will examine the tooth, take x-rays as needed, and explain your options.
- Dental bonding: For small chips or minor breaks, tooth-coloured composite resin can be applied and shaped to restore the tooth's appearance and smooth any rough edges. This is a relatively quick procedure done in a single visit.
- Dental crown: A larger break may weaken the tooth to the point where a crown (a cap that covers the entire tooth) is the most appropriate way to protect and restore it. This typically involves two appointments.
- Root canal treatment: If the fracture has exposed or affected the nerve of the tooth, root canal treatment may be recommended before placing a crown. This removes the affected tissue inside the tooth and allows the tooth to be retained.
- Extraction: In cases where the fracture is severe, particularly if it extends below the gum line or into the root, the tooth may not be salvageable. If extraction is necessary, the dentist will discuss replacement options with you at the same appointment.
All options will be explained to you at your appointment, along with what each involves and what may happen if you choose to wait. There is no pressure, our role is to give you the information you need to make a decision that is right for you.
What to tell us when you call
When you contact us, it helps to share: how the tooth was broken (accident, biting something hard, etc.), approximately when it happened, whether you are experiencing any pain or sensitivity, and whether there is visible bleeding or swelling. This information helps us understand the urgency and prepare for your appointment.
Have a broken tooth? Let us help.
Call 306.374.7272 or request an appointment online. We'll assess the damage and discuss your options.