What to Do If You Break a Tooth

May 26, 2025

Emergency Steps and Long-Term Care

Best Dentist in Folsom, CA

A broken tooth can happen in an instant—whether from biting something hard, a sports injury, or a weakened tooth giving way. Whatever the cause, it’s always important to act fast. At The Folsom Dentist, we provide prompt, compassionate care for dental emergencies, including chipped, cracked, or broken teeth.

If you’re in pain or unsure what to do, don’t wait. Reach out to a trusted dentist in Folsom who can assess the damage and offer the right treatment to restore your smile.

Common Causes of Broken Teeth

Understanding what causes teeth to break can help you avoid it in the future. Some of the most common culprits include:

  • Biting down on hard foods like nuts or hard candies
  • Teeth weakened by untreated cavities or old fillings
  • Accidents or trauma to the face
  • Grinding or clenching (bruxism)
  • Previous dental work reaching the end of its lifespan

If you’ve had extensive dental bonding or a dental crown in Folsom, be especially mindful of protecting those areas.

What to Do Right Away

If you or a loved one breaks a tooth, here’s how to respond before you reach the dental office:

  1. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area
  2. Use a cold compress on the cheek to reduce swelling
  3. If bleeding, apply gentle pressure with gauze
  4. Avoid chewing on the affected side
  5. Save any pieces of the tooth if possible
  6. Call our office immediately

We offer emergency appointments and can often see you the same day for evaluation and treatment.

Treatment Options for Broken Teeth

The best course of action depends on the extent of the damage. Our team will evaluate the break and discuss your options, which may include:

  • Bonding: Ideal for minor chips or cracks
  • Crowns: Used when a large portion of the tooth is missing
  • Veneers: May be used if a front tooth has cosmetic damage
  • Root canals: Needed if the break exposes the nerve
  • Tooth extraction: Reserved for cases where the tooth can’t be saved

If a break occurs in a previously restored tooth—such as one that already had a crown or bonding—we’ll assess whether repair or full replacement is best.

How to Prevent Broken Teeth

You can’t prevent every accident, but there are steps to lower your risk:

  • Avoid chewing ice, pens, or overly hard snacks
  • Wear a custom mouthguard if you play contact sports
  • Don’t ignore teeth grinding—ask about a nightguard
  • Treat decay early to prevent structural weakening
  • Stay on top of routine cleanings and exams

Preventive care from a family-oriented dentist in Folsom helps catch small problems before they lead to bigger ones like fractures or emergency dental visits.

Emergency Dental Care You Can Count On

When a tooth breaks, time matters. Prompt treatment can mean the difference between saving a tooth or needing more invasive procedures. If you’re unsure whether it’s a true emergency, it’s always safer to call and check. Our team is trained to respond quickly and compassionately.

Whether you’re a long-time patient or searching online for a dentist near me in Folsom who handles dental emergencies, we’re here to provide fast relief and personalized solutions.

Restore and Protect Your Smile

A broken tooth doesn’t have to mean a broken smile. With the right care and timely intervention, most patients can return to full function and aesthetics quickly. Whether you need a filling, veneer, or dental crown in Folsom, we’ll ensure your treatment blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency—or want to learn how to protect your smile in the future—contact The Folsom Dentist today. We’re here to help you smile with confidence, no matter what life throws your way.



Our Services

785 Hana Way, Folsom, CA 95630, United States of America

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