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Whether it’s an athletic endeavor gone awry or an especially crunchy mouthful of granola, various causes can damage a tooth. When faced with a broken or chipped chomper, many people aren’t sure whether they need urgent dental care or not. With February 9 marking National Toothache Day, there’s no better time to share the facts on when a broken tooth is considered an emergency. Here, dentist J. Bryson McBratney, D.D.S. in Anchorage, AK, tells you what you need to know.

If you’ve experienced trauma to a tooth, take a moment to examine the extent of the damage. Ask a friend for help if needed. Is the tooth partially chipped or totally broken? Minor chips or cracks can usually be smoothed and filled the next day. If there is a serious break, or you are in pain or bleeding, however, head to the dentist as soon as possible.

dentistYou should also seek urgent care if the tooth has been knocked completely out of the socket. In this case, grab the broken tooth by the top, rinse it off, and place it in salt water or milk to keep the root moist. Call your dentist on the way to the office, so they can prepare for your arrival.

With the appropriate precautions, you can greatly reduce your odds of requiring emergency dental care. First of all, keep teeth strong and healthy by practicing good oral hygiene. Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals—including calcium, which supports healthy bones and teeth. Wear a mouth guard when playing sports and beware of biting down on tough foods, like nuts.

If you require emergency dental care in Anchorage, call J. Bryson McBratney, D.D.S. This dentist offers patients top-quality general and cosmetic dentistry services built on 30 years of experience. From veneers to fillings and in-office crowns done in one visit, their cutting-edge technologies have you covered. Visit their website to find out more about their procedures. For an appointment, call (907) 562-3323.

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