Breaking a tooth can be scary, especially if it happens unexpectedly. Whether it’s caused by a fall, biting into something hard, or an untreated cavity, a broken tooth requires prompt care to avoid further damage, infection, or pain.

At Kanning Dental, we’re here to help you navigate dental emergencies with confidence. If you're searching for an emergency dentist in Richmond, MO, our team offers compassionate care and same-day treatment options to get your smile back on track.

Common Causes of a Broken Tooth

Understanding how and why teeth break can help you avoid it in the future. Common causes include:

• Biting down on hard foods (like ice, nuts, or hard candy)
• Using teeth to open packaging or bottles
• Sports injuries or accidents
• Untreated decay that weakens the tooth structure
• Old fillings or crowns that fail
• Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism)

No matter the cause, seeing a dentist quickly is critical—especially if the damage exposes the inner part of the tooth.

First Steps After Breaking a Tooth

If you or your child breaks a tooth, here’s what to do right away:

Step 1: Rinse Your Mouth

Use warm water to gently rinse out your mouth. This helps keep the area clean and allows you to see what’s going on more clearly.

Step 2: Save the Pieces

If you can find any pieces of the broken tooth, store them in a clean container with milk or saliva. In some cases, your Richmond dentist may be able to bond the piece back onto your tooth.

Step 3: Apply a Cold Compress

If there is swelling, hold a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. This helps reduce pain and inflammation.

Step 4: Call Your Dentist Immediately

Contact Kanning Dental as soon as possible. As an experienced emergency dentist in Richmond, MO, we’ll schedule you for the fastest available appointment and advise you on what to do in the meantime.

Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth

The right treatment depends on how severe the break is. Here are the most common options:

Minor Chips or Cracks

If the damage is cosmetic, we may be able to smooth out the edges or use bonding material to restore the tooth’s shape.

Moderate Breaks

For more significant breaks that affect the structure but not the root, a dental crown may be recommended to protect the tooth and restore full function.

Kanning Dental offers high-quality crowns that look natural and are designed to last. If you’re searching for long-lasting restoration options after a dental emergency, our team is ready to help.

Severe Breaks

If the break reaches the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be needed to remove the damaged tissue and prevent infection. Afterward, we’ll place a crown to seal and protect the tooth.

In cases where the tooth cannot be saved, we may recommend extraction and discuss tooth replacement options, including bridges, dentures, or dental implants.

Invisalign and Dental Trauma

If you’re undergoing Invisalign in Richmond, MO, and experience a broken tooth, be sure to bring your aligners to your appointment. Your dentist will evaluate whether your current trays still fit or if adjustments are needed to keep your treatment on track.

At Kanning Dental, we’re experienced in providing Invisalign solutions even for patients with complex dental needs, including those recovering from trauma.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Some dental issues can wait a few days—but a broken tooth is not one of them. Seek urgent care if:

• You’re in significant pain
• The break caused bleeding that won’t stop
• The nerve is exposed (you may feel extreme sensitivity to temperature or pressure)
• There’s swelling in your face or jaw
• A large part of the tooth is missing

Delaying treatment can lead to infections, abscesses, or permanent damage to surrounding teeth and bone.

Preventing Broken Teeth in the Future

While not all dental emergencies can be avoided, there are steps you can take to lower your risk:

• Don’t use your teeth as tools
• Wear a mouthguard when playing sports
• Avoid chewing ice or hard objects
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and early detection of weak or cracked teeth
• Ask about a nightguard if you grind your teeth

If you’re prone to accidents or have a history of dental issues, staying proactive can go a long way.

Emergency Dentistry You Can Count On

A broken tooth doesn’t have to derail your day—or your smile. At Kanning Dental, we take pride in being the go-to emergency dentist in Richmond, MO. Our team is equipped to handle urgent cases efficiently and with the care and attention you deserve.

Whether it’s a minor chip or a serious fracture, we’ll help you restore your tooth’s appearance, comfort, and function using the most effective and comfortable treatment options available.

Need Help Now?

If you’ve broken a tooth, don’t wait. Contact Kanning Dental today for immediate care. We’re committed to helping you protect your smile now and in the future—whether through emergency services, Invisalign treatment, or preventive care from the best dentist in Richmond, MO.