Broken Permanent Tooth

A chipped or broken permanent tooth can be a distressing event for both you and your child. Here’s what you need to know to handle this situation effectively.

What to Do:

• Assess the Damage: Look closely at the tooth to determine the extent of the break. Check for nerve exposure, which appears as a red or pink dot in the center of the tooth.
• Keep the Tooth Clean: Rinse your child’s mouth with warm water to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.
• Apply Fluoride Toothpaste: If there is no nerve exposure, smear fluoride toothpaste onto the exposed dentin to help decrease sensitivity.
• Manage Pain: Use over-the-counter pain relief suitable for children to manage discomfort, following the dosage instructions carefully. ​
• Avoid Hard Foods: Encourage your child to avoid biting down on hard foods that could further damage the tooth. ​
• Cover the Nerve: If nerve exposure is noted, it’s best to cover the area with dental wax or sugar-free gum until you can see a dentist. ​

When to Seek Treatment:

If there is no nerve exposure, schedule a visit with us as soon as possible. If nerve exposure is noted, it is crucial to cover the area and seek immediate attention. Please call us or report to the ER to prevent infection and manage pain effectively. Early intervention helps prevent complications and ensures proper healing.

What to Expect if You Seek Treatment:

When you bring your child in for a broken permanent tooth, our team will conduct a thorough examination to assess the extent of the damage. For minor chips without nerve exposure, we typically clean the area and apply a white restoration to cover the break and protect the tooth. If there is nerve exposure, we will disinfect the area and cover the exposed nerve with a specific medicament to promote healing and prevent infection. Our goal is to provide prompt, effective treatment to ensure your child’s comfort and long-term dental health.