“Help, I Chipped My Tooth!”

Accidents happen, and sometimes when they do, they can cause unexpected injuries like chipped teeth. But while you may not be able to prevent every dental emergency from occurring, what you do next can make a big difference. If you’ve chipped a tooth, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do, and how your dentist can help make your smile whole again!

I Chipped My Tooth! Now What?

The first thing you should do if you chip a tooth is not panic. Then, proceed to your nearest sink, and rinse your mouth with warm water. Be sure to clear out any food or dirt particles, as well as any remaining fragments of the tooth that could be loose. If you can, save the pieces for your dentist.

If you are bleeding, apply pressure to the wounded area right away by holding a clean washcloth or gauze to it until it stops. If you are bleeding excessively or suffering from a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

If you have lost the entire tooth, submerge it in a glass of milk, saline, saliva, or a tooth preservation kit. If you have knocked it loose but it is still attached, do not attempt to pull it out. Leave it in place in the socket.

Next, call your dentist and explain the situation. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may need a same day appointment, otherwise your dental team will be sure to schedule you as soon as possible.

While You Wait to See Your Dentist…

If you cannot be seen by your dentist immediately, you should still take proper care of your broken tooth while you wait. If it’s just a small chip but has a jagged edge, you can apply dental wax to the edge to prevent it from cutting your tongue or soft tissue. Don’t do this if you have a large chip or a section of tooth missing, as this can cause more damage when you go to clean it off.

Furthermore, avoid chewing on the side of the mouth with the broken tooth. You can try flossing around it to reduce pressure and irritation, but don’t do this if the tooth is loose.

If you are in pain, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever or apply a cold compress to your face over the broken tooth.

How Your Dentist Treats Broken Teeth

How you treat a broken tooth depends on the location and severity of the damage. For a tooth with a minor chip, it may only need to be filed down a bit, or your dentist may be able to rebuild it with dental bonding using the same material that is used in tooth-colored fillings. You may also be recommended a porcelain veneer.

For larger chips or cracks, you may need a crown and/or a root canal. If your tooth needs to be extracted, your dentist can discuss replacement options with you such as bridges or dental implants.

Remember, while chipping a tooth can be very scary, it’s important that you act quickly and calmly, and contact your dentist as soon as possible. They will do everything they can to preserve your tooth and restore your smile once again!

About Our Practice

At Bear Creek Family Dentistry, our team of dentists is proud to provide emergency services for when the unexpected occurs. If you have injured your tooth and are in need of immediate assistance, please contact your closest practice as soon as possible. For life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 and we’ll be happy to help restore your smile once you are ready.