---

title: “Broken Tooth Emergency Repair in Hillsboro | Same-Day Treatment”
description: “Broke a tooth? Get same-day emergency repair in Hillsboro. Dr. Ostovar offers CEREC same-day crowns, bonding, and immediate treatment. Call (503) 614-0198 now for urgent dental care.”
keywords: “broken tooth emergency Hillsboro, chipped tooth repair Beaverton, cracked tooth Aloha, same-day dental crown Hillsboro, emergency dentist”

---

Broken Tooth Emergency Repair in Hillsboro, Oregon

A broken tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate professional attention. Whether you have chipped a small piece of enamel or experienced a severe fracture exposing the inner tooth, prompt treatment is essential to prevent pain, infection, and further damage. At Evergreen Dental Care in Hillsboro, Dr. Ostovar provides same-day emergency appointments and advanced repair solutions for patients throughout Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Aloha who have broken, chipped, or cracked teeth.

Do not wait and risk complications. Call our office immediately at (503) 614-0198 when you break a tooth. We will schedule an emergency appointment, often the same day, and Dr. Ostovar will restore your tooth, eliminate pain, and protect your oral health using the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation.

Understanding Broken Tooth Emergencies

A broken tooth can range from a minor chip in the enamel to a severe fracture that splits the tooth vertically or exposes the nerve. The severity of the break determines the urgency of treatment and the repair options available. Understanding the different types of tooth fractures helps you appreciate the importance of seeking immediate professional care.

Types of Tooth Fractures

Dental professionals classify tooth fractures into several categories based on which parts of the tooth are affected and the severity of the damage.

Minor Chips and Enamel Fractures

Small chips that affect only the outer enamel layer are the least serious type of fracture. These may occur from biting hard objects, minor trauma, or weakened enamel. While minor chips may not cause immediate pain, they create rough edges that can irritate your tongue and cheeks, and they provide entry points for bacteria that can lead to decay.

Even small chips should be repaired promptly to prevent bacteria infiltration, smooth rough edges, restore aesthetics, and prevent the chip from worsening. Dr. Ostovar can often repair minor chips in a single appointment using dental bonding.

Moderate Cracks and Fractures

Moderate fractures extend through the enamel and into the dentin layer beneath. These fractures often cause sensitivity to temperature and pressure because the dentin contains microscopic tubules that lead to the nerve. You may notice pain when eating or drinking, especially with hot, cold, or sweet items.

Moderate fractures require prompt treatment to prevent bacteria from reaching the pulp tissue inside the tooth, which would necessitate root canal therapy. Treatment typically involves dental bonding for smaller fractures or a crown for larger ones that compromise tooth structure significantly.

Deep Fractures Exposing the Pulp

When a fracture extends deep enough to expose the pulp tissue containing nerves and blood vessels, severe pain typically results. The exposed pulp is extremely sensitive and vulnerable to bacterial infection. You may experience intense, constant pain, extreme sensitivity, bleeding from the tooth, and visible red tissue at the fracture site.

Deep fractures require emergency treatment to prevent infection and save the tooth. Treatment involves root canal therapy to remove the exposed, damaged pulp tissue, followed by crown placement to restore strength and protect the tooth.

Vertical Root Fractures

Vertical fractures that begin in the root and extend upward toward the chewing surface are among the most challenging tooth fractures to diagnose and treat. These cracks often cause vague symptoms including pain when biting, sensitivity, and gum swelling near the affected tooth.

Vertical root fractures typically cannot be repaired, and the tooth usually requires extraction. However, the extracted tooth can be replaced with a dental implant to restore function and aesthetics permanently.

Split Tooth

A split tooth is a complete fracture that divides the tooth into distinct segments. This severe fracture typically results from untreated cracks that have worsened over time or from significant trauma. Split teeth usually cannot be saved in their entirety, though sometimes a portion can be preserved through endodontic treatment and crown placement.

In most cases, split teeth require extraction and replacement with a dental implant or bridge to restore your smile and chewing function.

Common Causes of Broken Teeth

Understanding what causes teeth to break helps you take preventive measures to protect your smile.

Biting Hard Objects

Teeth are strong but not indestructible. Biting down on hard objects like ice, unpopped popcorn kernels, hard candy, nutshells, or pens can cause teeth to chip or crack. Using your teeth as tools to open packages, tear tags, or hold items also risks fractures.

Facial Trauma and Accidents

Falls, sports injuries, automobile accidents, and other facial trauma are common causes of tooth fractures. Front teeth are particularly vulnerable to impact-related breaks. Always wear appropriate protective equipment during sports and recreational activities.

Tooth Decay and Weakness

Teeth weakened by decay or large fillings are more susceptible to fracturing. Decay removes tooth structure and creates weak points that can collapse under normal chewing forces. Large fillings, especially older amalgam fillings, can weaken surrounding tooth structure and make fractures more likely.

Teeth Grinding and Clenching

Chronic grinding (bruxism) and clenching place excessive force on teeth, causing them to weaken, crack, and eventually break. Grinding typically occurs during sleep, and many people are unaware they have this habit until they experience symptoms like tooth damage, jaw pain, or morning headaches.

A custom nightguard protects teeth from grinding damage and prevents fractures in vulnerable teeth.

Temperature Extremes

Exposing teeth to extreme temperature changes, such as drinking hot coffee followed immediately by ice water, can cause microscopic cracks in enamel that weaken teeth and make fractures more likely over time.

Age-Related Wear

As we age, teeth naturally wear down and become more brittle and prone to fractures. Years of chewing, grinding, and exposure to acids weaken enamel and make older teeth more susceptible to breaking.

Previous Dental Work

Teeth that have undergone extensive dental work, particularly root canal therapy or large fillings, are weaker than intact teeth and more prone to fractures. This is why crowns are often recommended for teeth after root canals or for teeth with very large fillings.

Immediate Steps to Take When You Break a Tooth

If you break a tooth, taking the right immediate actions can make a significant difference in the success of your treatment and the health of your tooth.

Call Our Office Immediately

Your first action should be calling Evergreen Dental Care at (503) 614-0198. Describe what happened and your symptoms so our team can schedule an appropriate emergency appointment, often the same day. Time is critical with dental emergencies, and prompt professional treatment provides the best outcomes.

Save Any Broken Pieces

If possible, locate and save any pieces of the broken tooth. Rinse them gently with water, place them in a clean container with milk or saliva, and bring them to your appointment. In some cases, Dr. Ostovar may be able to reattach a broken fragment, though this is not always possible.

Rinse Your Mouth

Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to remove blood and debris. If you are bleeding, this cleansing also helps you see the extent of the damage. Use lukewarm water rather than hot or cold, which may cause pain if the nerve is exposed.

Control Bleeding

If the broken tooth is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with clean gauze or a tea bag. Most bleeding from tooth fractures stops within 10-15 minutes. If bleeding continues beyond this time or is heavy, this indicates a more serious fracture that requires immediate emergency treatment.

Apply a Cold Compress

Place a cold compress or ice pack on the outside of your cheek near the broken tooth. This reduces swelling, minimizes pain, and helps control bleeding. Apply for 15-20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between. Always place a cloth between the ice and your skin.

Manage Pain

Take over-the-counter pain medication according to package directions. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) is often most effective for dental pain because it reduces both pain and inflammation. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum, which can cause tissue damage.

Protect Sharp Edges

If the broken tooth has created sharp edges that cut your tongue, cheeks, or lips, you can temporarily cover them with dental wax, sugar-free gum, or temporary dental cement from a pharmacy. This protection prevents soft tissue injury until you can receive professional treatment.

Avoid Certain Foods and Actions

Do not chew on the side with the broken tooth. Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing. Avoid very hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages that may cause pain if the nerve is exposed. Do not attempt to smooth rough edges yourself or apply permanent adhesives like superglue to the tooth.

Treatment Options for Broken Teeth

Dr. Ostovar offers multiple treatment options for broken teeth, selecting the most appropriate approach based on the size, location, and severity of the fracture, as well as your individual needs and preferences.

Dental Bonding for Minor Chips

For small chips and minor fractures that affect only the enamel, dental bonding provides a quick, affordable, and effective repair. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin material to the damaged area, shaping it to match your natural tooth contour, and hardening it with a special curing light.

Dental bonding typically requires only one appointment lasting 30-60 minutes, involves little to no tooth preparation, costs less than crowns or veneers, and provides natural-looking results that blend seamlessly with your smile. Bonded teeth require no special care beyond normal brushing and flossing.

While bonding is durable, it is not as strong as natural enamel or porcelain restorations. Bonded areas may stain over time, especially if you consume coffee, tea, or wine regularly, and may need replacement every 5-10 years depending on the location and your bite forces.

Dental Veneers for Front Tooth Fractures

When a front tooth is chipped or fractured in a visible area, a porcelain veneer may provide the most aesthetic solution. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that cover the front surface of teeth, concealing chips, cracks, stains, and other imperfections.

The veneer process involves minimal tooth preparation, creating impressions for custom fabrication, and bonding the finished veneer to your tooth. Veneers provide exceptional aesthetics, are highly stain-resistant, and typically last 10-20 years with proper care.

For immediate aesthetics while your permanent veneer is being fabricated, Dr. Ostovar can place a temporary veneer so you never have to show a damaged smile.

Dental Crowns for Moderate to Severe Fractures

When a fracture is too large for bonding or affects a back tooth that endures heavy chewing forces, a dental crown provides the strength and protection needed. Crowns cover the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, restoring structure, function, and appearance.

Traditional crown placement involves two appointments over 2-3 weeks, but at Evergreen Dental Care, we offer CEREC same-day crowns that are designed, milled, and placed in a single appointment. This advanced technology allows you to walk in with a broken tooth and leave the same day with a permanent, natural-looking crown.

CEREC crowns are made from high-quality dental ceramic that matches your natural teeth in color and translucency. The crowns are extremely durable, bonded permanently to your tooth, and require no temporary crown or second appointment.

Root Canal Therapy for Deep Fractures

When a fracture exposes the pulp tissue inside your tooth, root canal therapy is necessary to save the tooth and eliminate pain. This procedure involves removing the damaged pulp tissue, cleaning and disinfecting the interior chamber and canals, filling them with a biocompatible material, and sealing the tooth.

After root canal therapy, the tooth requires a crown to protect it and restore strength, as teeth become more brittle after root canal treatment. Dr. Ostovar often completes the root canal and places a crown on the same day using CEREC technology, minimizing the number of appointments required.

Root canal therapy has an undeserved reputation for being painful, but modern techniques and anesthesia make the procedure comfortable. Most patients report that the treatment itself is no more uncomfortable than having a filling placed.

Tooth Extraction and Replacement

When a tooth is fractured too severely to be repaired, extraction becomes necessary. While losing a tooth is never the preferred outcome, extraction prevents infection, eliminates pain, and allows for replacement with a permanent solution like a dental implant.

Dr. Ostovar performs gentle tooth extractions using local anesthesia, with sedation options available for anxious patients. After extraction, he typically recommends dental implant placement as the ideal tooth replacement option. Implants prevent bone loss, function like natural teeth, and provide a permanent solution that can last a lifetime.

In many cases, a bone graft can be placed at the time of extraction to preserve the bone for future implant placement. Some patients are candidates for immediate implant placement at the time of extraction, which reduces the total treatment time and number of appointments.

CEREC Same-Day Crowns: Immediate Permanent Repair

One of the most significant advances in emergency dental care is CEREC technology, which allows Dr. Ostovar to design, create, and place permanent ceramic crowns in a single appointment. For patients with broken teeth requiring crowns, this means no temporary crowns, no second appointments, and no waiting weeks for your permanent restoration.

How CEREC Same-Day Crowns Work

The CEREC process begins with Dr. Ostovar preparing your tooth by removing damaged structure and shaping it to receive the crown. Instead of messy putty impressions, he uses a digital scanner to capture precise 3D images of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth.

These digital scans are transferred to CEREC design software, where Dr. Ostovar designs your custom crown, ensuring proper fit, bite, and aesthetics. The design is sent to the in-office milling machine, which carves your crown from a solid block of dental ceramic in about 15 minutes.

Once milled, Dr. Ostovar polishes the crown, checks the fit and bite, makes any necessary adjustments, and permanently bonds it to your tooth. The entire process from start to finish typically takes 2-3 hours, and you leave with a permanent crown that looks and functions beautifully.

Advantages of Same-Day CEREC Crowns

CEREC crowns offer numerous benefits for emergency broken tooth repair. You receive permanent treatment in one visit, eliminating the need for temporary crowns that can be uncomfortable and may fall off. You do not need to take time off work or arrange childcare for multiple appointments.

The crowns are made from high-quality ceramic that is strong, natural-looking, and biocompatible. Digital design ensures precise fit and comfortable bite. The entire process is more comfortable and convenient than traditional crown procedures.

Preventing Broken Teeth

While accidents happen, many broken teeth can be prevented by taking appropriate precautions and caring for your oral health.

Avoid Biting Hard Objects

Never use your teeth as tools. Do not bite ice, unpopped popcorn kernels, hard candy, nutshells, or other hard objects. Do not use teeth to open packages, tear tags, or hold items. These habits place excessive stress on teeth and commonly cause fractures.

Wear a Mouthguard for Sports

If you participate in contact sports, martial arts, or recreational activities with risk of facial impact, always wear a properly fitted mouthguard. Custom mouthguards from Dr. Ostovar provide superior protection and comfort compared to over-the-counter versions.

Address Teeth Grinding

If you grind your teeth at night, wear a custom nightguard to protect against fractures, wear, and damage. Nightguards cushion teeth from grinding forces and prevent the chips, cracks, and breaks that commonly result from bruxism.

Maintain Strong, Healthy Teeth

Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental care keep teeth strong and healthy. Treating cavities promptly prevents decay from weakening teeth and making fractures more likely. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that contribute to decay and gum disease.

Treat Large Cavities and Failing Fillings

If you have large cavities or old, large fillings, consider crowns to protect and strengthen these vulnerable teeth. Crowns prevent fractures by distributing chewing forces evenly and protecting weakened tooth structure.

Eat a Tooth-Healthy Diet

Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages that weaken enamel. Eat a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and phosphorus to keep teeth strong. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to rinse away food particles and maintain healthy saliva production.

Advanced Technology for Emergency Tooth Repair

Evergreen Dental Care utilizes state-of-the-art technology to provide the most effective, comfortable emergency treatment for broken teeth. Our digital x-ray system provides instant, detailed images that reveal the extent of fractures, including damage not visible to the naked eye, while exposing you to minimal radiation.

For complex fractures, our 3D cone beam CT scanner captures comprehensive three-dimensional images showing the fracture in relation to surrounding structures, helping Dr. Ostovar plan the most effective treatment approach.

Our CEREC system enables same-day crown fabrication, allowing you to receive permanent treatment immediately rather than waiting weeks with a temporary restoration. Digital impressions are more comfortable than traditional putty impressions and provide superior accuracy for optimal crown fit.

Why Choose Evergreen Dental Care for Broken Tooth Emergencies

When you break a tooth, you need immediate care from an experienced dentist who can repair the damage effectively and restore your smile. Dr. Ostovar provides same-day emergency appointments whenever possible, ensuring you receive prompt treatment when you need it most.

His extensive training, gentle technique, and access to advanced technology like CEREC allow him to handle even complex fractures with skill and precision. He takes time to explain your condition, discuss treatment options, answer questions, and ensure you feel comfortable and informed throughout your care.

Our team understands the stress and concern that comes with dental emergencies. We treat you with compassion, work efficiently to minimize your time in the chair, and provide effective solutions that restore both function and aesthetics.

Related Emergency and Restorative Services

In addition to broken tooth repair, we provide comprehensive emergency dental services including emergency toothache relief, treatment for knocked-out teeth, lost fillings or crowns, and other urgent dental problems requiring same-day attention.

Our restorative dentistry services include dental crowns for damaged teeth, dental bonding for cosmetic repairs, porcelain veneers for smile enhancements, and root canal therapy for infected teeth.

For missing teeth requiring replacement after extraction, we offer dental implants for single teeth, multiple tooth implants for several missing teeth, and full mouth dental implants for complete arch restoration.

If you experience dental anxiety, our sedation dentistry options ensure comfortable, stress-free treatment for all procedures.

Contact Us Immediately for Broken Tooth Emergency Care

Do not delay treatment for a broken tooth. Prompt care prevents complications, reduces pain, and provides the best opportunity for successful repair. If you have broken, chipped, or cracked a tooth, call Evergreen Dental Care in Hillsboro immediately at (503) 614-0198.

We provide same-day emergency appointments whenever possible and offer advanced treatment options including CEREC same-day crowns for immediate permanent repair. Dr. Ostovar and our team serve patients throughout Hillsboro, Beaverton, Aloha, and surrounding communities with compassionate, expert emergency dental care.

Call now and let us restore your smile and your peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Broken Tooth Emergencies

How quickly should I see a dentist for a broken tooth?

You should contact a dentist immediately, ideally within hours of the fracture. Even small chips should be evaluated and repaired promptly to prevent bacteria infiltration and further damage. Large fractures, especially those causing pain or exposing the nerve, require same-day emergency treatment. Call our office right away at (503) 614-0198, and we will schedule you as soon as possible, often the same day.

Can a broken tooth heal on its own?

No. Unlike bone, tooth enamel and dentin cannot regenerate or heal. Once a tooth is broken, professional dental treatment is necessary to repair the damage and protect the tooth from infection and further fracturing. Ignoring a broken tooth allows bacteria to enter, can lead to painful infections, and may result in the tooth requiring root canal therapy or extraction when it might have been saved with prompt treatment.

What if I cannot find the broken piece of my tooth?

While it is helpful to bring any broken pieces to your appointment, the absence of the fragment does not prevent successful treatment. Dr. Ostovar can repair your tooth using bonding, veneers, crowns, or other appropriate restorations regardless of whether you have the broken piece. The important thing is seeking prompt professional care.

How much does broken tooth repair cost?

Cost depends on the type of repair needed. Minor bonding for small chips typically costs $100-400, porcelain veneers range from $800-2,000 per tooth, and crowns cost $800-2,500 depending on the material and whether you choose traditional or CEREC same-day crowns. If root canal therapy is needed, add $600-1,200 to the total. We provide detailed cost estimates after examining your tooth and recommend the most appropriate treatment for your situation and budget.

Will my dental insurance cover broken tooth repair?

Most dental insurance plans cover medically necessary broken tooth repair, typically at 50-80 percent of the cost depending on your plan and whether the damage resulted from an accident. Coverage for cosmetic repairs of minor chips may be limited. We work with your insurance company to maximize benefits and provide cost estimates before treatment.

Is broken tooth repair painful?

The repair procedure itself is not painful, as Dr. Ostovar uses local anesthesia to numb the area completely before treatment. After the anesthesia wears off, you may experience minor tenderness or sensitivity for a day or two, but this is typically mild and easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication. The broken tooth itself may cause pain before treatment, but repair eliminates this pain.

Can I wait until Monday if I break a tooth on the weekend?

This depends on the severity of the fracture. If you have severe pain, facial swelling, heavy bleeding, or a fracture exposing the nerve, seek emergency dental care immediately or visit an emergency room. For minor chips causing no pain, managing the situation with over-the-counter pain relievers and protecting sharp edges until Monday is reasonable, though you should still call our office first thing Monday morning. When in doubt, our after-hours answering service can help you determine the urgency of your situation.