What to Do If You Break a Tooth

May 26, 2025

Emergency Steps and Long-Term Care

Best Family Dentistry in Wichita, KS

A broken tooth can happen suddenly—biting into something hard, a sports accident, or even unnoticed grinding while you sleep. Regardless of how it happens, knowing what to do when you break a tooth can save you pain, money, and even your smile.

At YR Family Dentistry, we’ve helped countless patients in Wichita handle dental emergencies with expert care and compassion. Whether it’s a small chip or a severe break, taking the right steps quickly can make all the difference.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Damage

A broken tooth can range from a minor surface crack to a severe fracture exposing the nerve. It’s important to assess the situation, but try not to panic. Common signs include:

  • Pain or sensitivity
  • Bleeding or swelling
  • A visibly jagged edge or missing part of the tooth

If you’re unsure how serious it is, don’t wait. Contact an emergency dentist in Wichita KS to get evaluated as soon as possible.

Step 2: Rinse and Protect the Area

Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to remove debris and reduce the risk of infection. If the area is bleeding, apply gauze with light pressure.

To protect a sharp or jagged edge from cutting your tongue or cheek, cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum until you can be seen.

If you’ve saved the broken piece, store it in milk or saline and bring it to your appointment.

Step 3: Call YR Family Dentistry Immediately

Prompt care is essential. Our team provides fast, effective treatment for dental emergencies like broken or cracked teeth, helping patients of all ages return to comfort quickly.

Whether you’re dealing with trauma after sports, biting into something hard, or a broken restoration, our family dentist in Wichita KS 67205 can evaluate the damage and offer the best solution.

Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth

The right treatment depends on the location, severity, and whether the nerve is involved. At YR Family Dentistry, we offer a wide range of options to restore your tooth and prevent future damage.

1. Dental Fillings

If the damage is minimal and only involves a small portion of the enamel, a simple dental filling in Wichita KS may be all that’s needed to restore the tooth’s shape and protect it from further damage.

2. Dental Crowns

For moderate to severe fractures, a dental crown in Wichita KS is often the best long-term solution. A crown covers the entire tooth, restoring its function and protecting the remaining structure.

3. Root Canal Therapy

If the nerve has been exposed or infected, a root canal in Wichita KS may be necessary before placing a crown. This procedure relieves pain and prevents infection from spreading.

4. Tooth Extraction and Replacement

In cases where a tooth is beyond repair, tooth extraction in Wichita 67205 may be recommended. We offer natural-looking replacement options, including dental implants in Wichita KS and dentures in Wichita 67205, to help you regain full function and confidence.

What If It’s a Child’s Tooth?

If your child breaks a tooth—whether it’s a baby tooth or a permanent one—it’s essential to seek care immediately. As your trusted dentist for kids in Wichita KS, we’ll assess the injury, ease their discomfort, and protect their developing smile.

We also provide tips to avoid further injury, including custom sports guards and nighttime solutions for grinding.

Can Botox or Fillers Help?

It may surprise you, but Botox in Wichita 67205 and fillers in Wichita KS can be used to reduce clenching forces that contribute to tooth fractures. If your break was caused by chronic jaw tension or TMJ, we’ll discuss holistic strategies to protect your remaining teeth—including facial therapy to balance muscle function.

Preventing Future Breaks

Once your tooth has been repaired, here are steps you can take to avoid future problems:

  • Address grinding and clenching: Ask us about nightguards or jaw tension relief options.
  • Keep up with cleanings: Regular teeth cleanings in Wichita 67205 help detect weaknesses early.
  • Avoid chewing on hard objects: Ice, pens, and popcorn kernels are common culprits.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene: Weak enamel and decay increase your risk of breaking a tooth.

If you're prone to dental issues or concerned about enamel loss, regular checkups with your general dentist in Wichita KS can keep you ahead of any problems.

Cosmetic and Functional Repair

For patients worried about aesthetics, our team offers advanced cosmetic dentistry to restore your smile. From clear aligners in Wichita KS to veneers in Wichita, we blend function with beauty to give you long-lasting results that look and feel natural.

We’ll help you choose the right option based on your goals, lifestyle, and budget—so your repaired tooth looks just like new.

Final Word: You’re Not Alone

Breaking a tooth can feel overwhelming, but with a compassionate dental team and fast action, it doesn’t have to derail your day—or your smile. At YR Family Dentistry, we’re proud to be your affordable dentist in Wichita 67205, offering expert care when you need it most.

Whether you’re looking for the best dentist in Wichita 67205, exploring smile improvements, or simply need help during a dental emergency, we’re here for you.

Call us today if you’ve broken a tooth—or want to prevent one. Your smile deserves it.



Our Services

3801 North Ridge Road, Wichita, Kansas 67205, United States

A woman is sitting in a dental chair looking at her teeth in a mirror.
May 26, 2025
Learn more about how to keep your dental work looking great with the best family dentistry in Wichita, KS.
A dentist is talking to a patient in a dental chair.
April 30, 2025
Learn more about the top 5 reasons to never skip a dental check-up with the best family dentistry in Wichita, KS.
A woman is sleeping in a bed with white sheets and pillows.
April 30, 2025
Learn more about how to protect your teeth while you sleep with the best family dentistry in Wichita, KS.
A before and after picture of a woman 's face.
March 24, 2025
Learn more about how aging affects your teeth and gums with the best family dentistry in Wichita, KS.
A woman is holding her face in pain while eating an ice cream cone.
March 24, 2025
Learn more about what causes tooth sensitivity and how to treat it with the best family dentistry in Wichita, KS.
A before and after picture of a woman 's teeth.
February 28, 2025
Learn more about why you shouldn't ignore bleeding gums with the best family dentistry in Wichita, KS.
A close up of a tooth with a crown on it
February 28, 2025
Read about everything you need to know about dental crowns with the best family dentistry in Wichita, KS.
A man is getting his teeth examined by a dentist.
January 20, 2025
Learn more about the stages of tooth decay with the best family dentistry in Wichita, KS.
A man with a beard is holding a dental implant in his mouth.
January 20, 2025
Learn more about why replacing missing teeth is essential with the best family dentistry in Wichita, KS.
More Posts