Dental 911 in Roanoke, TX: How to Handle Broken Front Tooth?

Each person has four front teeth, also known as incisors, on both the upper and lower jaw. These teeth are the ones that are easily noticed by anyone when talking or smiling. Their main purpose is to bite and tear food before it is sent to the chewing teeth which are the molars and premolars.

Since these structures are the most visible, they are also the ones that are more prone to damage. Accidentally hitting the mouth with a ball or intentionally punching the face can send a tooth flying! Having a broken or missing front tooth can cause a person to be more conscious of their looks. Aside from this, normal habits like eating and speaking would change. It would be harder to tear foods and even pronounce certain words.

At Dental Care of Texas, we understand that accidents can happen anytime and anywhere – missing a front tooth due to trauma, for instance. Once it is experienced, it is necessary for the patient to perform proper steps to avoid it from causing other complications. To do the right thing, follow the list below.

How to Take Care of a Broken Front Tooth?

It is best if the patient will not be too hasty and first check the state of the tooth. The step is essential since the measures to be taken depends on its condition.

Chipped Tooth

It is characterized by losing a portion of the tooth which often results in the exposure of the pulp and roots. If this happens, it is necessary to seek the immediate attention of a dentist for it to be handled professionally. Leaving the condition unattended can lead to infection, severe pain, swelling, and other complications.

Loose Tooth

It is often the result of taking a hard hit on the mouth. Some of the symptoms that can be spotted are bleeding and pain that can range from mild to moderate. Some people may think that they are lucky to have their tooth intact. But this is not the case; it can actually indicate that roots were damaged or that the tooth is pushed on the jaw. Since it is impossible for a patient to know the case, seeing the dentist is a must.

Knocked out Tooth

Out of the three, this is the one that would cause most bleeding. It is necessary for the patient to apply pressure on the site to stop it from bleeding. If it continues to do so after 30 minutes,  it is best to head to the nearest emergency room. In case the dislodged tooth is retrieved, place it in a glass of milk, water, or saliva to preserve it. Patients should make sure not to scrub the tooth especially the roots since it may still be possible for the dentist to put the tooth back on its socket.

At Dental Care of Texas, we are always ready to assist our patients with their dental woes. By always ready, we mean that we also cater to dental emergencies. We know that if proper measures are taken, it is necessary to keep oral health in excellent shape.

Do not take dental matters in your own hands especially in terms of emergencies!