Dental accidents can happen when you least expect them. Whether you’ve bitten into something hard, taken a fall, or experienced sudden pain, a cracked, chipped, or broken tooth is a situation that requires prompt attention. Russo Family Dentistry in Metairie, LA, specializes in restoring damaged teeth so you can smile and chew comfortably again.

Here’s what you should do if you ever face a dental emergency like this.

Common Causes of Damaged Teeth

Accidents & Injuries

Sports injuries, falls, or even chewing on hard foods like ice or popcorn kernels can lead to cracks and chips.

Tooth Decay

Untreated cavities weaken the tooth structure, making it more likely to break.

Grinding or Clenching (Bruxism)

Chronic teeth grinding can wear down enamel and cause cracks over time.

What to Do Right Away If a Tooth Gets Damaged

Rinse Your Mouth Gently

Use warm water to clean the area and remove any debris.

Apply a Cold Compress

If there is swelling, apply a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce pain and inflammation.

Save Any Broken Pieces

If a portion of your tooth has broken off, place it in a saline solution and bring it with you to your dental appointment.

Call Your Dentist Immediately

Contact Russo Family Dentistry in Metairie as soon as possible. A cracked or broken tooth should be treated quickly to prevent infection and further damage.

Treatment Options For Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Teeth

Dental Bonding For Small Chips

For minor cosmetic chips, dental bonding is a quick and effective solution. Tooth-colored resin is applied and shaped to restore your tooth’s natural look.

Dental Crowns For Large Breaks

If the damage is more severe, a dental crown can cover and protect the remaining tooth structure, restoring strength and appearance.

Root Canal Therapy For Deep Cracks

When cracks extend into the pulp of the tooth, root canal therapy may be necessary to remove infection and save the tooth.

Tooth Extraction & Replacement

In rare cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be required. Russo Family Dentistry offers replacement options such as dental implants and bridges to restore your smile.

Preventing Future Tooth Damage

• Avoid chewing on ice, pens, or other hard objects.
• Wear a mouthguard during sports or if you grind your teeth at night.
• Maintain regular checkups to detect early signs of tooth weakness.

Emergency Dental Care With Russo Family Dentistry in Metairie, LA

If you have a cracked, chipped, or broken tooth, don’t wait! Quick action can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Russo Family Dentistry provides emergency dental care in Metairie, offering same-day appointments when possible.

Call Russo Family Dentistry today to schedule your appointment and get your smile back on track.