Accidents can happen with no warning. If you’ve chipped a tooth, don’t panic! Even if you’re not having any pain, it’s important to see an emergency dentist right away. While you wait for your appointment, here’s what you can do at home to protect your tooth while managing your discomfort.
A Chipped Tooth is a Dental Emergency
Your enamel is stronger than some metals. It is even the hardest substance in your body, but it isn’t indestructible. Chips and cracks can happen for various reasons. Unfortunately, your enamel will not grow back if it is damaged. Therefore, your tooth can be vulnerable to sensitivity, bacteria, and more significant damage if it isn’t treated by an emergency dentist.
If the break is minor, and you aren’t in any pain, you can wait a day or two for an appointment, but don’t put treatment off for too long or you just might lose your tooth.
Handling a Chipped Tooth
If you’ve chipped a tooth, take a deep breath to remain calm, and then follow these tips:
- Rinse Your Mouth: Rinse your mouth with water to remove debris or blood. This will allow you to get a better look at the situation.
- Control Any Bleeding: If you’re experiencing any bleeding, bite on a piece of gauze for 20 minutes. Change it as needed.
- Call Your Dentist: Contact your dentist and tell them what’s going on. They’ll get you into the office quickly to provide the treatment you need.
- Manage Pain: Not all chip teeth hurt; however, if you have any discomfort, take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Eat Carefully: Eat soft foods that require minimal chewing. Avoid anything hot or cold to prevent sensitivity. Chew slowly and carefully on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Use Salt Water: Rinse your mouth with salt water to kill bacteria. It will also reduce pain and inflammation.
Fixing a Chipped Tooth
Your emergency dentist will examine your mouth and review an X-ray to have a complete picture of the situation. They’ll create a personalized treatment plan, which may include:
- Dental Bonding: A composite resin can fix a chipped tooth using a non-invasive treatment. The resin is shaded to the color of your enamel to blend in with your tooth.
- Veneer: A veneer is a customized restoration that covers the front side of a tooth, improving its color, size, and shape.
- Dental Crown: Significant breaks or fractures may require a dental crown. The customized cap covers the entire surface of a tooth above the gum line to provide a layer of protection while restoring its function and appearance.
Your dentist will provide the treatment you need to save your tooth from future damage. You’ll enjoy results that look and feel natural.
About Dr. Lancen Halbert
Dr. Halbert earned his dental degree at The Medical University of South Carolina and has completed extensive training in various specialties, like cosmetic dentistry, CEREC, and surgical implantology. He has the qualifications and experience to treat the most complex oral health issues, including dental emergencies. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (864) 428-0213.