A broken tooth can catch any family off guard. A pediatric dentist can evaluate the damage to the tooth, help relieve any discomfort, and determine the best way to protect the child’s smile. Knowing what to do right away can also help parents and guardians respond calmly and avoid accidentally making the problem worse.
A broken tooth can happen during sports, playground activities, falls, or simply while chewing something hard. The first step is to check the child for other injuries and help them stay calm. Parents and guardians can then look inside the mouth to see where the tooth broke and whether the gums or lips are also injured.
A few simple steps can help protect the area until a pediatric dentist examines the tooth:
Do not place aspirin or other medication directly against the tooth or gums. Unfortunately, this can irritate delicate oral tissues. A pediatric dentist and their team can provide guidance on appropriate relief based on the child’s age and needs.
During the appointment, the pediatric dentist examines the injured tooth, surrounding gums, and nearby teeth. They may also check how the child bites down and look for signs that the tooth has shifted after the injury. In most cases, the dentist will take dental X-rays, which can reveal damage below the gumline or around the tooth root when necessary. Note that these X-rays bring minimal radiation exposure and, per the American Dental Association (ADA), are safe for children.
The pediatric dentist will likely ask how and when the injury happened. These details can provide helpful clues about the amount of force involved and whether nearby structures may need attention. A calm, child-focused approach can help make the evaluation easier for young patients who often already feel nervous after an accident.
Treatment depends on how much of the tooth has broken and whether the inner layers remain healthy. For a small chip, a pediatric dentist may smooth a rough edge or use dental bonding (a tooth-colored composite resin) to restore the tooth’s shape. Larger fractures may require a dental crown to provide additional coverage and strength.
When a fracture reaches the pulp, the dentist may recommend more extensive treatment to protect the tooth and address the affected tissue. In some situations, pulling a severely damaged baby tooth may offer the healthiest option. The dentist will consider the child’s age, the location of the tooth, and the stage of dental development before recommending care.
A broken tooth can feel stressful, but timely care can help protect it and relieve discomfort. Need help with your child's broken tooth? Contact us today for guidance.
Request an appointment here: https://babylonpediatricdentistry.com or call Babylon Pediatric Dentistry at (631) 635-6365 for an appointment in our Babylon office.
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