What Should I Do If I Chip a Tooth?

You’ve just chipped a tooth, and understandably, you’re feeling a bit uncertain about what to do next. It’s a common dental mishap that can happen to anyone, whether it’s from biting down on something hard, a sports injury, or even just a simple accident. 

While it might be tempting to panic or ignore the issue altogether, taking the right steps now can help prevent further damage and discomfort down the road.

Chipping a tooth can range from a minor inconvenience to a more serious problem, depending on the extent of the damage. In this article, we’ll walk you through what to do if you find yourself in this situation, from assessing the damage to seeking professional help and preventing future issues.

What to Do if You Chip a Tooth

Small Chips vs Breaks

First things first, take a moment to assess the damage. Is it a small chip that’s barely noticeable, or is it a more significant break that’s causing pain or discomfort? Look for any signs of bleeding, swelling, or sensitivity, as these could indicate a more serious issue. If you’re unsure about the severity of the chip, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice.

Clean & Stop the Bleeding

Once you’ve assessed the damage, it’s time to take immediate action. Start by rinsing your mouth with warm water to clean the area and remove any debris. If there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or piece of gauze until it stops. You can also use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage any discomfort.

Save the Fragments!

If you can retrieve any tooth fragments, be sure to save them and bring them with you when you seek professional help. In some cases, your dentist may be able to reattach the fragment, depending on the size and location of the chip.

Speaking of professional help, it’s important to contact a dental professional as soon as possible after chipping a tooth. Even if the chip seems minor, it’s best to have it evaluated by a dentist to rule out any underlying issues and determine the appropriate course of action.

When to See a Dentist

When contacting a dentist, be sure to explain the situation and mention that it’s an emergency. Many dental offices keep slots open for urgent cases like chipped teeth, so you may be able to get an appointment on the same day. If it’s after hours or on the weekend, look for emergency dental services in your area.

During your dental visit, your dentist will examine the chip and recommend the best course of treatment based on the severity of the damage. For minor chips, simple procedures like dental bonding or a filling may be sufficient to restore the tooth’s appearance and function. However, more significant chips may require a crown, veneer, or even a root canal if there’s damage to the tooth’s nerve.

Regardless of the treatment recommended, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions and attend any follow-up appointments as scheduled. This will help ensure that your tooth heals properly and remains healthy in the long term.

Preventing More Chipped Teeth

In addition to seeking professional help, there are steps you can take to prevent further damage to your chipped tooth. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, and be mindful of habits like nail biting or using your teeth to open packages. If you participate in sports or other activities where there’s a risk of dental injury, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

Finally, it’s important to address any emotional concerns you may have about chipping a tooth. It’s natural to feel embarrassed or self-conscious about the way your tooth looks, but remember that dental accidents can happen to anyone. Talk to friends or family members for support, and focus on taking positive steps to address the issue and restore your smile.

Cosmetic Dentistry for Chipped Teeth

Chipping a tooth can be stressful and embarrassing, but knowing what to do can help alleviate some of that anxiety. By assessing the damage, seeking professional help, and taking steps to prevent further damage, you can protect your oral health and get back to smiling with confidence in no time.

Here at Edmonton Smiles, we offer a wide range of cosmetic dentistry solutions to repair smiles. Porcelain veneers and dental crowns are the most common and effective options.

To consult with our experienced cosmetic dentists about fixing your chipped or broken tooth, call the team at Dr. Molly Rogers Dental team today at (587) 410-5907 to make an appointment.