177 Gordonhurst Ave, Montclair, NJ 07043

Accidents can happen anytime, a sudden fall, biting into something hard, or a sports injury can leave you with a chipped or broken tooth. If you’re facing this, don’t panic. This quick, professional guide explains what to do, your treatment options, and how Ferguson Dental’s urgent dental care can help, even after hours.
First Things First: Assess the Damage & Stay Calm
A chipped tooth can be minor, but a larger break or severe pain could mean deeper issues, like damage to the tooth pulp or root.
Here’s What to Do Immediately:
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm water.
- If there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure using gauze.
- To reduce swelling, apply a cold compress to your cheek.
- Save any broken fragments—they might be used in the repair.
- Avoid biting down or chewing on the injured side.
What Should I Do Immediately if I Break or Dislodge a Tooth?
- Rinse with warm water, apply gauze if there’s bleeding, use a cold compress for swelling, save broken pieces, and contact the office right away.
- If you experience severe pain or are unsure of how to handle your emergency, call the office to be connected to Dr. Ferguson or Dr. Braswell, who will provide individualized guidance. We prioritize patients in pain or discomfort, and are available to speak with and/or treat patients outside of office hours if necessary. If a tooth is completely dislodged, submerge it in a cup of milk or leave it in the mouth until you can get to the dental office. Time is of the essence, and you will need to be seen right away to increase your chances of having the tooth successfully put back into the socket.
When to Seek Care at an Emergency Room
- While dental concerns can often be addressed with urgent care at Ferguson Dental Associates, some situations require immediate attention at a hospital emergency room. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, please call 911 or seek emergency care at a hospital right away:
- Uncontrolled Bleeding: If you experience severe bleeding that cannot be stopped with pressure, it’s essential to go to the emergency room immediately.
- Severe Infection and Swelling: If you have swelling that is making it difficult to breathe or swallow, or if you experience a high fever along with swelling, seek immediate medical attention.
- Facial Trauma Involving Facial Bones: If your facial injury includes broken bones or damage to your jaw that compromises your ability to breathe, you need emergency care at a hospital. If you suspect a possible fractured jaw, immobilize the jaw by any means (e.g., necktie or towel); apply a cold compress for swelling. Go immediately to a hospital emergency room.
- In these critical situations, a hospital emergency room is equipped to handle life-threatening complications, such as airway obstruction or systemic infection, which may require specialized care and attention.
Treatment Options: What Dr. Ferguson or Dr. Braswell Might Recommend
Depending on the extent of the chip or break, treatments may include:
- Dental Bonding – Ideal for small chips; uses tooth-colored resin to restore shape.
- Dental Veneers – Thin porcelain covers for larger or visible chips or discolored teeth
- Dental Crowns – Used when a significant portion of the tooth is missing to protect and strengthen.
- Root Canal Treatment – Needed if the tooth pulp is exposed or infected.
- Tooth Extraction & Replacement, including Implants – For severe fractures and tooth damage beyond repair.
Ferguson Dental specializes in broken tooth repair, using the latest techniques and same-day solutions whenever possible at our emergency dental care.
After-Hours Dental Help: What if It Happens Late at Night or Over the Weekend?
Dental accidents don’t stick to office hours. That’s why Ferguson Dental provides after-hours phone consultation and emergency dental services if needed. Whether it’s late evening, weekend, or even a holiday, our team is ready to answer your questions, help relieve your pain, and start treatment promptly.
Our Emergency Care Process
- Call Us Anytime: Whether it’s during or after regular office hours, give us a call at (973) 744-3181 for assistance.
- Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ferguson or Dr. Braswell, and our experienced team will assess your situation and provide expert advice.
- Diagnosis and Treatment: Once you’re in our care, Dr. Ferguson will quickly diagnose your condition and begin treatment, ensuring your pain is minimized and the issue is addressed right away.
- Follow-Up Care: After your emergency appointment, we’ll discuss a long-term treatment plan to prevent further issues and restore your oral health.
How to Prevent Future Chips or Breaks
- Wear a custom mouthguard when playing sports.
- Avoid chewing ice, pens, or hard candy.
- Maintain routine dental checkups to spot weak teeth early.
- Address teeth grinding (bruxism) with a night guard.
Why Choose Ferguson Dental for Emergency Tooth Repair?
- Same-day dental appointments for urgent needs.
- Utilizing modern dental technology and providing gentle care.
- Experienced dentists skilled in urgent and complex repairs.
- A compassionate team dedicated to your patient comfort.
Call the Office at 973-744-3181 to discuss your concerns or for instructions on how to connect with Dr. Ferguson or Dr. Braswell today.

