It happens in an instant. A bite on something hard, a knock during sport, a slip — and suddenly you're standing there with a broken tooth and no idea what to do next. It's one of the most common dental emergencies we see, and the good news is that with the right steps, the outcome is almost always better than you'd expect. This guide covers everything: what to do in the first few minutes, when it's a genuine emergency, what treatment options are available, and how to avoid it