Emergency Dental Advice

What to Do If You Break a Tooth or Filling?

A dental emergency can be worrying, especially if you’ve broken a tooth or lost a filling. The steps below can help ease discomfort and protect the area until you can see a dentist.

What to Do If You Have a Broken Tooth or Filling

Sharp or Sensitive Broken Tooth

If the broken tooth has a sharp edge that irritates your tongue or cheek:

• Don’t try to reinsert any broken pieces.

• Cover the sharp edge with dental wax, temporary filling material (from a pharmacy), or sugar-free chewing gum if nothing else is available.

• Contact your dentist as soon as possible for proper treatment.

Chipped Front Tooth

• If only a small chip has come off, your dentist may simply smooth the edge.

• For larger chips, a tooth-coloured filling can restore the natural look.

Broken Back Tooth (Molar)

• If part of the chewing surface has broken away, you will likely need a filling or dental crown to protect the tooth and prevent further damage.

Severe Break Involving the Nerve

If the break exposes the pulp (the inner nerve):

• You may feel strong pain or sensitivity.

• A root canal may be required to remove the damaged nerve tissue and prevent infection.

• Afterwards, the tooth will be restored with a filling or crown.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

Contact an emergency dentist straight away if you have:

• Severe pain

• Swelling

• Signs of infection (such as pus or fever)

A broken tooth should not be left untreated, as it can lead to further problems. Getting help quickly ensures the best outcome.

At Clinic for Implant & Orthodontic Dentistry, we provide emergency dental care in Worthing, West Sussex. If you need urgent treatment, call 01903-821822 or visit dental-worthing.co.uk to book an appointment.