Broken Tooth Repair – Emergency & Same Day Service
 When a tooth breaks unexpectedly, it can lead to sharp pain, sensitivity, and cosmetic distress. Whether from trauma, decay, or biting into something hard, a broken tooth should never be ignored. At Jerome Riddle DDS, we provide emergency tooth repair and same-day dental care to restore comfort and protect your long-term oral health.
Immediate Steps for a Broken Tooth
The moments after breaking a tooth are critical. Taking the right steps can prevent further damage and improve your chances of a successful repair.
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Rinse with Warm Water - Gently clean the area to remove debris and reduce the risk of infection.
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Apply a Cold Compress - Reduce swelling and manage pain by placing a cold pack on the outside of your cheek.
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Control Bleeding - Use gauze to apply gentle pressure if there's bleeding.
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Save Broken Pieces - If possible, store fragments in milk or saliva and bring them to your appointment.
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Avoid Using the Tooth - Refrain from chewing on the affected side to prevent worsening the damage. |
Some breaks are purely cosmetic—like a small chip—while others involve deeper fractures that expose nerves or compromise the structure. If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or visible pulp, it’s a clear sign of a dental emergency. Contact our office immediately for urgent dental care.
Emergency & Same-Day Dental Repair Options
Our clinic offers same day dental repair for many types of tooth damage. The treatment you receive depends on the severity of your injury and whether infection or structural compromise is involved.
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Dental Bonding - For small chips, bonding restores function and appearance quickly using a resin material.
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Same-Day Crowns - Advanced milling technology allows us to fit a temporary or even permanent crown in one visit.
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Root Canal Therapy - Needed when damage reaches the pulp or causes infection.
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Tooth Extractions - Severely damaged teeth that can’t be saved may need removal.
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Prioritized Emergency Appointments - Walk-ins and urgent calls are handled swiftly to minimize wait times. |
Not every situation qualifies for same-day treatment, but most broken tooth emergencies can be stabilized and temporarily restored while planning long-term care.
Common Treatment Methods for Broken Teeth
The appropriate broken tooth treatment depends on the location and depth of the fracture. Understanding your options can help you feel more confident moving forward.
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Dental Bonding - Ideal for minor chips in front teeth; a tooth-colored resin is sculpted and hardened in one visit.
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Dental Crowns - Recommended for teeth with significant structural loss; crowns encase the tooth for protection and strength.
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Root Canal & Crown - When inner pulp is exposed or infected, a root canal removes the damaged tissue followed by a crown.
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Veneers - A cosmetic solution for front-facing teeth with superficial damage, offering a smooth and symmetrical appearance.
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Each treatment balances function, durability, and aesthetics. Our dental team will help guide your decision based on clinical evaluation and your goals.
Pain Management and Temporary Relief
Discomfort is common with broken teeth, especially if nerves are exposed or soft tissues are irritated. These measures can help relieve pain until you're treated:
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Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers - Ibuprofen or acetaminophen help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
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Cold Compress - Applying a cold pack for 15-20 minutes at a time can reduce swelling and numb the area.
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Soft Foods Only - Stick to a soft diet and avoid using the affected side.
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Avoid Temperature Extremes - Hot or cold beverages may trigger sharp pain.
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Numbing Gel - Temporary relief for gum or nerve sensitivity, but not a substitute for professional care. |
These methods offer short-term comfort, but emergency dental care is still necessary to resolve the issue.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Knowing what happens during an emergency dental visit can ease anxiety and help you prepare for your appointment.
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Initial assessment using visual inspection and X-rays to determine the extent of damage.
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Discussion of repair options, timelines, and estimated costs.
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Immediate treatment if possible—many minor repairs can be completed same-day.
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Use of local anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. |
Common treatments like bonding may take as little as 30–60 minutes. Crowns and root canals may require longer or follow-up appointments. We strive to make every visit as efficient and stress-free as possible.
Costs & Insurance Considerations
The cost to fix a broken tooth can vary significantly depending on the treatment required. Here's what you should know:
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Treatment Type - Bonding is generally less expensive than crowns, root canals, or implants.
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Extent of Damage - Deeper fractures may require more complex procedures.
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Insurance Coverage - Many plans cover part or all of emergency dental treatment; we recommend calling to verify your benefits.
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Financing Options - Payment plans or credit-based financing may be available to spread out costs. |
Every case is unique. For a personalized estimate, we encourage an in-office consultation where we can review your coverage and explain all available options.
Preventing Future Tooth Damage
Once you've had a broken tooth repaired, taking steps to avoid future damage is essential. Simple habits can significantly reduce your risk.
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Avoid Hard Foods and Objects - Chewing on ice, hard candy, or pen caps can cause fractures.
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Wear a Mouthguard - Essential for contact sports or grinding/clenching habits.
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Treat Bruxism - Custom nightguards protect against stress-related grinding during sleep.
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Routine Checkups - Regular dental visits help identify small issues before they turn into emergencies. |
These strategies help protect your smile and reduce the chances of unexpected dental trauma.
Schedule Your Emergency Appointment Today
If you're dealing with a broken, chipped, or cracked tooth, fast treatment is critical. Jerome Riddle DDS offers same-day dental care and emergency appointments to get you out of pain and on the road to recovery quickly.
Call 480-991-4410 now to speak with our team or schedule your appointment.
FAQs
What should I do immediately after breaking a tooth?
Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and save any tooth fragments. Avoid eating on the affected side and contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Can a chipped tooth be fixed the same day?
Yes, minor chips are often repaired with dental bonding in a single visit. More complex cases may require temporary solutions until a permanent repair is completed.
Is emergency dental care covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans offer partial or full coverage for emergency procedures. Our office can help verify your benefits and explain payment options.
Will a broken tooth always need a crown or root canal?
Not always. Minor damage may only require bonding, while severe breaks involving the pulp may need a root canal and crown. The treatment depends on the extent and location of the damage. |
