Breaking a tooth while you’re away from home can be stressful, especially if you already have a return flight booked. Many seasonal residents ask whether a quick, temporary fix is enough to hold them over until they see their dentist up north. In many cases, the answer is yes, though it depends on the type and severity of the damage.
When a Temporary Repair Makes Sense…
A minor chip or small fracture may be safely stabilized with a temporary solution, like dental bonding or a protective filling. These “patches” are designed to reduce sensitivity, protect the tooth from further damage, and lower the risk of infection until you can get longer-term treatment.
… And When It Doesn’t
However, not all broken teeth can wait. If a break exposes the nerve, causes significant pain, or shows signs of infection, delaying proper treatment could make the problem worse. In those cases, addressing the issue fully, even if it’s not your home dental office, is the safer choice.
The good news is that modern dentistry makes coordination easy. Digital x-rays and records can be securely shared with (or by) your dentist back home, ensuring continuity of care and protection for your oral health until you return.
Stress-Free Emergency Dental Care in Lakeland, FL
If you’re in Lakeland and want to know whether a broken tooth can be safely patched before you fly home or needs immediate attention, contact Dr. Vernon Smith and the skilled Quality Dental Care of Lakeland team to schedule a consultation.