A broken tooth can be a stressful experience—whether it happens suddenly from an accident or gradually from decay or grinding. But don’t panic. At BU Dental in Pleasant Hill, we’ve helped many patients through dental emergencies, and we’re here to guide you through what to do next.



Whether it’s a minor chip or a severe fracture, prompt action can make all the difference in saving your tooth, preventing further damage, and restoring your smile with confidence.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Damage

The first thing to do is evaluate the severity of the break. Is it a minor chip in the enamel, or is there pain, bleeding, or exposed tissue? Severe breaks may affect not only the appearance of your smile but also the nerves inside your tooth.

Even if you’re not experiencing pain, it’s important to reach out to an emergency dentist near Pleasant Hill. A seemingly small issue could worsen without treatment.

Step 2: Protect the Area

Until you’re able to see a dentist, follow these steps to protect your mouth:

• Rinse with warm salt water to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection.
• Apply a cold compress if there’s swelling.
• Avoid chewing on the affected side.
• Cover jagged edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum to prevent cuts on your tongue or cheek.

If you've had dental work before—like porcelain crowns or clear aligners in Pleasant Hill—it’s even more important to avoid pressure on the area until you’re evaluated.

Step 3: Call BU Dental Right Away

We offer timely care for patients dealing with cracked, chipped, or broken teeth. Whether you're already our patient or looking for a trusted emergency dentist in Pleasant Hill, our team is ready to help restore your smile as quickly and comfortably as possible.

We’ll assess the damage and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s a filling, crown, veneer, or tooth extraction in Pleasant Hill.

Treatment Options for a Broken Tooth

The right treatment depends on the location and extent of the break. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Tooth-Colored Fillings
Minor chips can often be repaired using a composite filling that blends seamlessly with your natural enamel. This is a quick and affordable solution we frequently perform at our Pleasant Hill office.

2. Dental Crowns or Porcelain Crowns
For deeper cracks or large breaks, a porcelain crown may be placed over the tooth to restore strength and function. These are a great solution for molars or teeth that have already had extensive dental work.

3. Dental Veneers
If the broken tooth is visible when you smile, a veneer might be the right aesthetic fix. Veneers in Pleasant Hill offer a long-term solution for restoring the look of front teeth while improving color and shape.

4. Root Canal Therapy
If the break exposes the tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be needed before placing a crown. This will prevent infection and eliminate pain while preserving your natural tooth.

5. Tooth Extraction and Dental Implants
In cases where the tooth is too damaged to be saved, extraction may be the only option. Our team offers gentle tooth removal in Pleasant Hill and can discuss tooth replacement options with you—such as dental implants or dentures, depending on your needs.

Preventing Future Tooth Breaks

A broken tooth may be a surprise, but you can take steps to reduce your risk in the future:

• Wear a mouth guard if you grind your teeth or play sports.
• Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens.
• Visit BU Dental regularly for checkups and cleanings.
• Address issues like decay or weakened fillings early, before they lead to fractures.

Many patients also choose cosmetic and restorative solutions, such as clear aligners or dental implants in Pleasant Hill, to enhance both the strength and appearance of their smile long-term.

Your Trusted Partner for Dental Emergencies

At BU Dental, we believe no dental emergency should disrupt your life longer than necessary. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden tooth break or need urgent relief from dental pain, our team is ready to provide high-quality, compassionate care. From porcelain crowns to emergency tooth extraction and everything in between, your smile is in good hands.

If you or a loved one experience a dental emergency, contact BU Dental in Pleasant Hill right away. Your path to a restored, healthy smile starts with one call.