Is a Broken Tooth Considered an Emergency?

One of the most common dental problems that people experience is a broken tooth, but a lot of people are not sure whether or not it is considered an emergency. Broken teeth can be very problematic if they are not treated, so it is important to know when this is considered an emergency.

Keep reading to find out more about what is warranted as an emergency. 

Is a broken tooth an emergency?

A broken tooth usually occurs from a traumatic injury such as a force to the face or an accidental fall that causes a break. Most of the time, this may be considered an emergency because it is usually very forceful and sometimes, even painful. However, there is not necessarily one answer when it comes to a broken tooth being considered an emergency but there are a few ways that one can tell. Being aware of what is considered an emergency can be helpful as situations arise. 

When a broken tooth is considered to be an emergency

A painful crack or chip

When a person breaks a tooth through a crack or a chip, there may be severe pain that occurs too. And, if that pain is pretty prominent then it is likely considered to be an emergency. When a tooth cracks or chips, the fracture can be strong enough that sharp edges are created, which can also be detrimental to the rest of the mouth. This again should be considered an emergency.

However, if the crack or chip does not cause pain and there are not any sharp edges, then it may not be considered emergent. A visit to the dentist can wait but it should not go ignored for too long because the fracture can worsen, thus resulting in a need for complete replacement, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Completely dislodged

A broken tooth may also be a tooth that is completely dislodged from one’s mouth. And, if a tooth does become dislodged completely then it is 100% a dental emergency that needs to be addressed by an emergency dentist. When a tooth becomes dislodged, it will likely break very unevenly or it may come out completely from the roots - either way, this kind of break is considered an emergency.

Bleeding or swelling

When the tooth breaks, there may be bleeding or swelling that occurs which should definitely be considered an emergency. Bleeding and swelling may both be a sign that the broken tooth caused serious damage to the area. In this case, it is best to see a dental emergency specialist, especially if there is any blood or swelling.

Reach out to our office today

If you have questions about broken teeth being emergencies then reach out to our office so that we can help you further. Let our trained professionals go over whether or not you should see an emergency specialist. Give us a call or stop by today!

Request an appointment here: https://familydentalmemphis.com or call Dental Partners White Station at (901) 201-4577 for an appointment in our Memphis office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth in Memphis, TN.