Whether it’s a slip, a bite into something too hard, or an old filling giving way, a broken tooth can be alarming. Fortunately, the right steps can make a big difference in how your tooth is treated—and how your smile looks afterward.

At Nathanson Dental, we help patients in Hunt Valley, MD, recover quickly and comfortably from dental emergencies, including broken or chipped teeth. Here's what to do if it happens to you.

Immediate Steps After a Tooth Breaks

If you break a tooth, stay calm and follow these initial steps:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean
• Use a cold compress on your cheek if swelling occurs
• Apply gauze for bleeding and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
• Try to locate the broken fragment and bring it to your appointment

Don’t delay seeking care. Even minor breaks can expose the inner tooth structure, increasing the risk of infection or further damage.

When to Call for Emergency Dental Care

If you’re experiencing severe pain, exposed nerves, or visible damage, it’s time to call a dentist for emergency care in Hunt Valley, MD. Delaying treatment can lead to complications like:

• Infection
• Tooth loss
• Extensive restorative procedures

We can often see you the same day to assess the damage and relieve discomfort.

Repair Options Based on Severity

At Nathanson Dental, your treatment will depend on how much of the tooth has been compromised. Common solutions include:

• Dental bonding for small chips in the enamel
• Veneers for front teeth with cosmetic fractures
• Dental crowns in Hunt Valley, MD, for moderate to large breaks that affect the tooth’s structure
• Root canal therapy if the tooth’s pulp is exposed or infected
• Tooth extraction in Hunt Valley, MD, for severely damaged teeth that cannot be saved

If extraction is required, we’ll walk you through replacement options such as implants or bridges to restore full function and appearance.

Cosmetic Enhancement After Repair

If your broken tooth impacts your smile’s appearance, cosmetic treatments like veneers or teeth whitening in Hunt Valley, MD, can enhance your results. For example, combining a veneer with a whitening treatment can improve color uniformity and overall brightness.

Prevention: What You Can Do to Avoid Future Damage

To reduce the risk of breaking another tooth:

• Avoid chewing on ice or hard candy
• Use a mouthguard during sports or physical activity
• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
• Don’t use your teeth to open bottles or containers

Patients with signs of bruxism or TMD in Hunt Valley, MD, should be evaluated to prevent future complications.

Bonus: Comfort Options to Ease Anxiety

We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful. For patients feeling anxious, we offer gentle sedation options to keep you calm and comfortable during your visit.

We also provide Botox treatments in Hunt Valley, MD, for those seeking relief from TMJ symptoms, facial tension, or cosmetic enhancements—adding a comprehensive layer of care to your dental visit.

Your Trusted Emergency Dentist in Hunt Valley

Dental emergencies don’t have to derail your day—or your confidence. At Nathanson Dental, we’re committed to helping you recover quickly and comfortably with lasting results. Whether it’s a cracked crown, a broken tooth, or sudden jaw pain, our team is ready to restore your smile with expert care.