If you chip a tooth, the first thing to do is try not to panic. A chipped tooth can be upsetting, especially if it happens suddenly or affects a tooth that shows when you smile. But chipped teeth are common, and in many cases they can be repaired. The most important thing is to protect the tooth and have a dentist look at it as soon as you can.
The first step is to check the area gently. Look in the mirror if you can. Try to see how much of the tooth is missing and whether there is bleeding, swelling, or a sharp edge. If a piece of the tooth broke off, save it if you can. Put it in a small container or plastic bag and bring it with you to the dentist. The dentist may or may not be able to use it, but it is still a good idea to bring it.
Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If there is bleeding, place a clean piece of gauze on the area and apply gentle pressure. If your face or gums are swollen, you can use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek. This may help reduce swelling and discomfort.
If the chipped tooth has a sharp edge, it may irritate your tongue, cheek, or lips. You can cover the sharp area with dental wax if you have it. Some pharmacies carry temporary dental repair kits, but these are only short-term fixes. They do not replace seeing a dentist. Try not to keep running your tongue over the chip, even though that can be hard to avoid.
Avoid chewing on the side of the chipped tooth until it has been checked. Hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods can make the damage worse. Softer foods are a better choice for now. If the tooth is sensitive, avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks. Sensitivity may mean that the inner part of the tooth is exposed or irritated.
Pain is another thing to pay attention to. A small chip may not hurt at all, but a deeper chip can cause pain or sensitivity. If you are in pain, you may be able to take an over-the-counter pain reliever, as long as it is safe for you and your dentist or doctor has not told you to avoid it. Do not put aspirin directly on the gums or tooth, because it can burn the tissue.
You should call a dentist even if the chip seems small. Some chips look minor but may be connected to cracks, decay, old fillings, or grinding. A dentist can examine the tooth and decide the best way to fix it. Small chips may be repaired with bonding or smoothing. A larger chip may need a crown. If the nerve of the tooth is affected, a root canal may be needed before the tooth can be restored.
A chipped tooth should be treated more urgently if there is severe pain, swelling, bleeding that does not stop, a large piece of tooth missing, or the tooth feels loose. You should also call right away if the chip happened because of an injury or accident.
The longer you wait, the more likely the tooth may become irritated or damaged further. Getting it checked early can make treatment easier and help protect the rest of the tooth.
If you have chipped a tooth, call us today to schedule an appointment. We can examine the tooth, explain your repair options, and help get your smile comfortable and healthy again.
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