A broken tooth can happen suddenly—from biting into something hard to taking a hit during sports, or even due to weakened enamel from decay. Whatever the cause, one thing’s certain: it’s uncomfortable, and you want to know what to do next.
So, if you’re staring into the mirror wondering how to get a broken tooth out of your mouth—this guide is for you.
What Counts as a Broken Tooth?
A broken tooth can mean:
- A chipped edge (typically minor).
- A cracked tooth (often painful).
- A fractured cusp (usually around fillings).
- A vertical root fracture (a serious, often hidden problem).
- Or worse—a tooth broken to the gumline.
Sometimes, part of the tooth falls out on its own. But if a fragment is stuck, or the whole tooth is hanging on by a thread, you need to be cautious.
Can You Pull Out a Broken Tooth Yourself?
Short answer: Don’t.
Pulling a broken tooth yourself may seem like a quick fix, but it can:
- Cause severe bleeding.
- Increase the risk of infection.
- Lead to nerve damage.
- Leave fragments embedded in the gums.
- Complicate future dental procedures.
Let the pros handle it.
Instead, call an emergency dentist in Denver right away. They have the tools and training to extract the tooth safely and manage pain or swelling.
What To Do While You Wait for Your Appointment?
Until you can get to the dentist, here’s how to manage the situation:
1. Rinse Gently
Use warm salt water to rinse your mouth. It reduces bacteria and soothes inflammation.
2. Apply a Cold Compress
Hold it against your cheek to minimize swelling and pain.
3. Use OTC Pain Relief
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease discomfort—but avoid aspirin, as it may increase bleeding.
4. Don’t Wiggle It
Even if the broken tooth is hanging on loosely, don’t poke, prod, or twist it. You could make things worse.
Here’s Why This Matters
According to the American Association of Endodontists, over 5 million teeth are knocked out or broken each year in the U.S. alone—and improper at-home removal is a growing reason for dental complications.
When The Tooth Must Come Out: What A Dentist Will Do
If the tooth is beyond saving, a dentist will perform an extraction. The procedure involves:
- Numbing the area.
- Gently loosening the tooth with specialized instruments.
- Removing any remaining fragments.
- Cleaning the socket to prevent infection.
Afterward, they’ll talk to you about restoration options, such as:
- A dental implant.
- A bridge.
- Or a partial denture.
When Is a Tooth Too Broken to Save?
If your tooth is:
- Broken below the gumline.
- Split vertically.
- Severely decayed inside.
- Causing repeated infections.
…it may not be salvageable. But don’t assume—it’s worth getting a professional evaluation first.
How To Prevent a Future Broken Tooth
Let’s be honest: accidents happen. But some tips can lower your chances:
- Avoid chewing ice, pens, or hard candy.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports.
- Don’t use teeth as tools (put down that bottle cap!).
- Visit a dentist regularly for checkups.
- Treat decay early before it leads to weakness.
Keeping your teeth strong means protecting your overall oral health, not just your smile.
It might be tempting to wait it out, especially if the pain isn’t unbearable. But a broken tooth is a dental emergency waiting to happen.
Your best move? See our emergency dentist ASAP. They’ll not only remove the tooth safely but also help you restore your smile with confidence.
