Biting into something too hard, taking an unexpected fall, or chewing on your favorite pen are all great ways to chip a tooth. And while it may seem like a small issue, even a minor chip can affect your smile and lead to bigger dental problems down the road. Still, there’s no need to panic. Continue reading to find a guide for handling this minor dental emergency and see what you can do to protect your smile.
1. Take a Breath and Assess the Damage
First things first—take a deep breath! Chipped teeth are a common dental emergency, and most can be repaired quickly. Take a look in the mirror or have someone check the damage. Is it a small chip, or is a larger part of your tooth missing? Do you feel any sharp edges? Is there pain or bleeding? Make note of these answers, you’ll need them when you call your dentist.
If the chip is minor and not causing discomfort, you may not need immediate care. However, if the tooth is painful, jagged, or has deep cracks, it’s time to pick up your phone.
2. Rinse and Protect the Area
To prevent infection or further damage, you’ll need to make a saltwater solution with a teaspoon of salt per eight ounces of water. Swish it around in your mouth for thirty seconds and spit it out gently. This will prevent excessive bacteria.
If there’s bleeding around the tooth, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth, paper towel, or gauze. For a jagged tooth, cover the area with dental wax or a piece of sugar-free gum.
3. Manage Your Discomfort
A chipped tooth can leave the inner layers exposed to bacteria and extreme temperatures, often causing discomfort. So, take some generic pain medication like ibuprofen or use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling. With consistency, you’ll be able to manage any pain until you can see your dentist.
4. Call Your Dentist
Even if the chip seems small, it’s best to have your dentist take a look at your tooth. Any compromise to your tooth’s structure leaves it weaker than before and can lead to cracks and decay. Your dentist will determine the best treatment based on the severity of the damage.
Minor chips can often be smoothed or bonded with tooth-colored resin. Larger breaks may require a dental crown for strength and protection while severe damage that exposes the nerve may need a root canal and restoration.
A chipped tooth doesn’t have to ruin your day. By acting quickly and visiting your dentist at the first opportunity, you can restore your tooth and prevent future damage. If you’ve chipped a tooth, don’t wait—schedule an appointment to get it checked and repaired. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Praveena Muddana is a friendly and talented dentist who treats her patients like family. She earned her dental doctorate from the New York University College of Dentistry and has since then strived for excellence in patient care and comfort through advanced training. If you need relief from a dental emergency in Milwaukee, call (414) 808-2003 to schedule an emergency consultation at Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry. You can also visit our website to learn more.