Chipped or Cracked a Tooth? What to Do Next
A broken piece may still be useful—save it and contact a dentist.
Keep the fragment
If part of a tooth breaks off, place the piece in milk or in your own saliva collected in a container. For a child, use a container too; do not keep a loose fragment inside their mouth. Bring it to the dentist.
Arrange a dental assessment
A chipped, broken or cracked tooth should be checked by a dentist, even if it seems minor. Explain when it happened and whether there is pain. If urgent help is needed outside opening hours, check the dental practice's recorded advice or seek an emergency dental service.
Know the possible next steps
A dentist may reattach the fragment, use a filling or crown, or recommend other treatment if the damage is deeper. The right option depends on the examination. A general medical appointment cannot repair the tooth.
Source and further reading
Sources checked: 24 October 2026. General health information, not a diagnosis. Seek professional advice for your circumstances.
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