A broken wisdom tooth can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars to emerge in our late teens or early twenties. Unlike the rest of our teeth, wisdom teeth can cause a lot of trouble when they start to break or even when they are fully grown. If you’re dealing with a broken wisdom tooth, it’s important to know what to do. In this article, we’ll discuss five important things to keep in mind when dealing with a broken wisdom tooth.
1. Seek Professional Help
The first and most crucial step to handling a broken wisdom tooth is to seek professional help. A dentist will be able to assess the damage and help formulate a treatment plan. Delaying a visit to the dentist may worsen the problem, which could lead to more pain and discomfort.
2. Don’t Ignore the Problem
Sometimes, individuals tend to ignore broken wisdom teeth if they are experiencing no pain; however, this is not always the best course of action. Broken wisdom teeth can provide a route for bacteria to enter the bloodstream, leading to infections that can quickly escalate. Wisdom teeth should be monitored closely, and any changes in appearance or pain should be addressed by a professional.
3. Use Ice Packs
If you’re dealing with a broken wisdom tooth, one of the quickest ways to relieve pain and swelling is by using ice packs. Apply the ice pack to the swollen area for 20 minutes, remove the pack for 20 minutes, and then reapply. This process can be repeated as needed until the pain subsides.
4. Avoid Certain Foods
After experiencing a broken wisdom tooth, it’s important to avoid certain types of foods. Hard and chewy foods such as nuts, candy, or chewing gum can cause more pain and discomfort. Opting for soft foods like soup, mashed potatoes, or smoothies can decrease pressure on the teeth, alleviating pain.
5. Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions
Whatever treatment option your dentist suggests, it’s essential to follow their instructions to the letter. Following the instructions of your dentist after a broken wisdom tooth can help you a quicker recovery. Be sure to keep any follow-up appointments and notify your dentist if you experience any unusual symptoms or a recurrence of pain.
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a broken wisdom tooth can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be unbearable. Seeking professional help immediately, avoiding certain foods, using ice packs, and following your dentist’s instructions are vital steps in handling the situation. Remember, ignoring the problem may worsen it, leading to serious consequences. Taking action as soon as possible will ensure a speedy recovery.
