I broke a tooth and it is cutting my tongue. What can I do?

Q: I broke a tooth and it is cutting my tongue. What can I do?

A: A broken tooth with sharp edges can irritate or cut your tongue, causing discomfort. To protect your tongue, apply orthodontic wax or dental wax (available at most pharmacies) over the jagged edge of the tooth to create a smooth barrier. You can also try rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater to keep the area clean and reduce irritation. Avoid chewing on the affected side and stick to soft foods. It’s essential to see a dentist as soon as possible for a proper evaluation and treatment, such as smoothing the tooth, a filling, or other restorative procedures, to prevent further injury or complications. Contact your dentist promptly to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Maksim has been practicing dentistry in the San Diego area for over 20 years.
www.michaelmaksimdds.com