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A broken tooth or lost filling can be alarming, but knowing what to do will help protect the tooth until you can see us. Here's your step-by-step guide.
Lost Filling
A lost filling exposes the softer inner tooth, which is vulnerable to decay and sensitivity.
Immediate steps:
1. Keep the area clean — brush gently after meals
2. If sensitive, apply Sensodyne Rapid Relief toothpaste into the cavity
3. For sharp edges, press temporary filling material (from pharmacies) or sugar-free gum into the hole
4. Avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods
5. Don't chew on that side
Seek treatment within 48 hours to prevent decay getting into the exposed tooth.
Lost Crown or Bridge
If your crown or bridge comes loose:
1. Keep it safe — don't throw it away 2. Clean both the crown and your tooth 3. Try temporarily re-fixing with denture adhesive (Fixodent or similar) 4. If you can't reattach it, keep the area clean and avoid that side 5. Book an appointment within 48 hours
Don't use superglue — it's toxic and makes proper re-cementation harder.
Chipped Tooth (No Pain)
If you've chipped a small piece off with no pain:
1. Smooth any sharp edges with a nail file if they're cutting your tongue 2. Apply Sensodyne if there's sensitivity 3. Keep the fragment if you have it (in cold milk) 4. Book a routine appointment — we can often repair this easily
Small chips aren't emergencies but should be checked to prevent further damage.
Broken Tooth With Pain
Pain indicates the break has reached the nerve or is deep enough to cause inflammation.
Immediate care:
- Take ibuprofen and paracetamol alternately every 2 hours
- Apply oil of cloves to the area
- Rinse with warm salt water
- Cover sharp edges with temporary filling material or wax
- Avoid that side completely
This needs urgent attention — call us on 0115 910 1447.
Bleeding or Sore Gums Around the Break
Breaks often irritate the surrounding gum.
- Rinse 3 times daily with warm salt water (1 teaspoon in a cup)
- Brush gently, even if it's uncomfortable — keeping clean prevents infection
- If too painful to brush, use Corsodyl (chlorhexidine) mouthwash temporarily
- The gum should settle once the tooth is repaired