Can You Save a Broken Tooth? Flagstaff Emergency Dentist Weighs In

A broken tooth can stop you in your tracks, whether it's caused by a fall, a hard bite on something unexpected, or a deep cavity that finally gives way. It's a stressful situation, we understand. 

At Cedar Avenue Family Dentistry, we’ve been helping Flagstaff families navigate dental emergencies with compassion and experience for over 50 years. The good news? In many cases, a broken tooth can be saved. Understanding your options starts with getting the right care right away.

When Is a Broken Tooth Considered a Dental Emergency?

The moment a tooth cracks, chips, or breaks, it’s best to reach out to a dentist as soon as possible. Even if the pain is tolerable or seems to fade, there could be underlying damage that affects your long-term oral health. 

Dr. Madison Kurz and Dr. Kevin Chittenden specialize in prompt, empathetic emergency dental care, often offering same-day appointments to relieve discomfort and begin restorative treatment immediately. Situations that count as dental emergencies include:

• Severe pain or sensitivity in the affected tooth
• Visible cracks, chips, or broken-off pieces
• Bleeding or swelling around the tooth or gum line
• Difficulty chewing or speaking due to the break

If you’re unsure whether your situation is urgent, call us at (928) 774-3851. We’re always happy to talk it through and help you decide the next step.

Can a Broken Tooth Be Repaired?

In many cases, yes. A broken tooth can be restored using modern techniques and materials designed to preserve both function and appearance. The type of treatment depends on the extent of the damage, but thanks to advancements like our in-house CEREC system, many patients leave with a fully restored smile in just one visit. Some common treatment options include:

• Same-Day Dental Crowns: Using CEREC technology, we can create and place a custom-fit crown in a single appointment without the need for temporaries.
• Tooth-Colored Fillings or Bonding: Ideal for minor chips or fractures, this quick and comfortable treatment restores shape and blends seamlessly with your natural tooth.
• Root Canal Therapy: If the break exposes the tooth’s nerve, a root canal may be needed to relieve pain and save the tooth structure.
• Tooth Extraction and Replacement: In rare cases where the tooth cannot be saved, we’ll discuss comfortable, long-term tooth replacement options such as implants or a bridge. All of these are provided right here in-office.

What Should I Do Immediately After Breaking a Tooth?

Acting quickly can prevent further damage and improve the likelihood your tooth can be saved. If you break a tooth, follow these steps and contact our office right away:

• Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the area
• If there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure using clean gauze
• Use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling and ease pain
• Avoid chewing on the affected side
• Save any broken tooth fragments and bring them with you if possible

Most importantly, don’t delay. Cedar Avenue Family Dentistry often welcomes same-day emergency visits because we know that time matters when it comes to dental trauma.

How We Make Emergency Dental Visits Comfortable and Calm

We know that walking into a dental office during an emergency isn’t easy. We’re here to change that experience. As a family-led practice deeply rooted in the community, we take the time to listen, explain your options, and create a calm environment where your comfort comes first. 

Whether you're dealing with physical discomfort or feeling anxious, our team goes above and beyond to treat you like family from the moment you call. Here’s what makes your visit different at Cedar Avenue Family Dentistry:

• Welcoming, home-like environment led by a small husband and wife dentist team
• State-of-the-art technology, such as same-day CEREC crowns, for efficient solutions
• Holistic approach that looks at your complete oral health, not just the issue at hand
• Flexible availability and genuine empathy in urgent situations

Schedule an Emergency Dental Appointment Today!

If you've broken a tooth, don't wait. Getting timely, experienced care can make all the difference. At Cedar Avenue Family Dentistry, we’re proud to be the trusted emergency dentist that Flagstaff families have relied on for generations. Call us now at (928) 774-3851 to schedule an appointment and let us help restore your smile with the compassion and expertise you deserve.