Emergency Dental Care
Broken Tooth Repair
A broken tooth is alarming, but most can be saved when treated quickly. Call us at 540-443-2659 and we'll get you in as soon as possible.
Reviewed by Dr. Sang Kim, DMD — Updated April 2026
Types of tooth breaks
Not all breaks are the same, and understanding the type helps determine the right treatment. At Bridgewater Dental Center, Dr. Sang Kim evaluates the severity and recommends the most conservative option that will protect your tooth long-term.
- Minor chip — A small piece of enamel breaks off. Usually comfortable but can leave a rough edge that irritates your tongue or cheek.
- Cracked tooth — A fracture line runs through the tooth, sometimes extending below the gum line. You may notice sharp pain when biting or sensitivity to temperature changes.
- Cusp fracture — A piece of the chewing surface breaks away, often around an existing filling. The tooth is weakened but the nerve is usually not affected.
- Severe break — The tooth fractures deeply enough to expose the nerve. This is typically very painful and requires immediate care.
- Split tooth — The tooth has cracked into distinct segments. Depending on the extent, part of the tooth may still be salvageable.
What to do immediately
If you break a tooth, stay calm. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water and save any pieces you can find. If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with gauze. A cold compress on the outside of your cheek will help manage swelling. Avoid chewing on that side and skip hard or sticky foods until we can see you. Cover any sharp edges with sugar-free gum or dental wax to protect your tongue and cheeks, then call our office at 540-443-2659.
Treatment options
Dr. Kim will take digital X-rays and examine the break to determine the best course of action. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the damage:
- Dental bonding — For minor chips, tooth-colored composite resin is shaped and hardened directly onto the tooth. This can often be completed in a single visit.
- Porcelain veneer — When a front tooth has a visible chip or crack, a thin porcelain shell restores both strength and appearance.
- Dental crown — For larger breaks or teeth weakened by fracture, a crown covers and protects the entire visible portion of the tooth.
- Root canal and crown — If the break has exposed or damaged the nerve, a root canal removes the compromised tissue before a crown is placed.
- Extraction — When the tooth is split below the gum line and cannot be restored, a gentle extraction may be necessary, followed by a replacement plan.
Comfort during your visit
We know an unexpected dental visit can feel overwhelming. If anxiety is a concern, we offer sedation dentistryoptions including nitrous oxide and oral sedation so you can relax while we repair the damage. Patients from Bridgewater, Harrisonburg, and across the Shenandoah Valley choose our team because we move quickly without cutting corners. If you don't have dental insurance, ask about our Virginia Dental Club for discounts on restorative care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a broken tooth be saved?+
In most cases, yes. The sooner you see us, the more options we have. Minor chips can be repaired with bonding in a single visit, while larger breaks may need a crown. Even teeth with exposed nerves can often be saved with a root canal and crown.
What should I do with the broken piece of my tooth?+
Save it if you can. Rinse the piece gently and bring it to your appointment in a clean container. In some cases, Dr. Kim may be able to bond the fragment back onto the tooth.
How much does it cost to fix a broken tooth in Bridgewater?+
The cost depends on the type of repair needed. Simple bonding is the most affordable option, while crowns and root canals cost more. We accept most insurance plans and offer our Virginia Dental Club membership for patients without coverage.
Does a broken tooth always hurt?+
Not always. A minor chip may cause no pain at all, while a deeper break that exposes the nerve can be extremely painful. Even if a broken tooth doesn't hurt, it still needs attention to prevent decay and further damage.
Can I wait a few days to see the dentist for a broken tooth?+
We recommend coming in as soon as possible. A broken tooth is vulnerable to bacteria and further cracking. The longer you wait, the more likely the damage will worsen and require more extensive treatment.
Will fixing my broken tooth look natural?+
Yes. Whether we use bonding, a veneer, or a crown, we carefully match the color and shape to your surrounding teeth. Most patients are pleasantly surprised at how natural the repair looks.
Ready When You Are
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