What To Do When You Have a Dental Emergency with a Chipped Tooth
A chipped tooth is a common dental emergency that can happen when you least expect it. It can be a result of biting into something hard, taking a fall, or even from an accidental knock to the mouth.
The damage can expose the sensitive inner layers of your tooth and weaken its overall structure, leaving you at risk for discomfort and potential infection. At the moment of the incident, it is natural to feel a little panicked and unsure about what to do next.
The good news is that prompt dental care can restore a chipped tooth, helping you avoid complications.
At Hampden Ave Dental, we offer emergency dental care to help you get the prompt attention you need when accidents like this happen. Our team is here to relieve discomfort, repair damage, and protect your long-term oral health.
In this article, we will walk you through the immediate steps to take in case of a chipped tooth and how to recognize when urgent care is needed.
Services
What Happens When a Tooth Chips or Breaks
A chipped tooth occurs when a piece of a tooth breaks away, often due to an accident or trauma to the mouth. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience at first, a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth can be more than just a cosmetic issue.
Even small breaks can expose the more delicate inner layers of your tooth, which are far more sensitive to temperature changes, bacteria, and pressure.
If left untreated, this type of dental injury can lead to bigger problems, including:
- Increased pain
- Infection
- Further weakening or fracturing of the tooth
Depending on the severity, the damage can range from a tiny flaw in the outer enamel to a deeper fracture. In severe cases, it can affect the dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) or the tooth’s nerve tissue (pulp).
When a tooth is damaged, it loses its natural protective barrier, making it much more vulnerable to decay and infection. Over time, bacteria can infiltrate these compromised areas, potentially leading to infections, abscesses, or even tooth loss if not treated properly and in time.
First Steps to Take After a Chipped or Broken Tooth
Experiencing a sudden dental injury can be stressful, but taking the right steps can help protect your tooth and minimize complications. Here are some practical, dentist-approved steps to take right away until you are able to see your dentist.
1. Rinse Your Mouth Gently
Start by rinsing your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean and wash away any debris. This helps minimize the risk of infection, especially if the injury caused bleeding or exposed sensitive areas of the tooth.
2. Save Any Broken Pieces, If Possible
If part of your tooth has broken off, try to locate and save the fragments. Place them in a small container with milk or saliva to keep them moist. In some cases, our dentist may be able to reattach the broken piece.
3. Manage Pain and Swelling
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area to reduce swelling and ease discomfort. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage pain and soreness. However, avoid applying pain medication directly to the damaged tooth or gums, as this could cause irritation.
4. Protect Your Mouth from Further Injury
If the damaged tooth has sharp or jagged edges, cover it with dental wax (available at most pharmacies) or sugar-free gum. This helps protect your tongue and the inside of your cheek from cuts until you can get professional care.
5. Avoid Using the Injured Tooth
Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Hard or crunchy foods could worsen the damage and cause more discomfort.
Some minor chips may not cause immediate pain or sensitivity, but it is still important not to overlook them. All chipped teeth should be evaluated by a dentist. Even if the pain seems manageable or the damage appears minor, it is important to contact your dentist as soon as possible.
At Hampden Ave Dental, our team is ready to carefully assess the severity of the damage and provide appropriate treatment.
Emergency Dental Care for a Chipped Tooth
When you experience a broken or chipped tooth, getting prompt attention from a dental professional is the best way to prevent further complications.
At Hampden Ave Dental, we understand how stressful unexpected dental issues can be. That’s why we offer same-day appointments for urgent dental situations to help relieve discomfort and restore your smile as quickly as possible.
We are experienced in treating all types of dental emergencies, including cracked, chipped, or fractured teeth. Our expert dentists provide a range of treatments depending on the severity of the injury.
- Tooth Reattachment (if possible): In some cases, saved fragments of the chipped tooth can be successfully reattached during treatment.
- Dental Bonding: For minor chips, a tooth-colored resin can be applied, shaped, and polished to restore the tooth’s appearance and strength.
- Dental Veneers: When damage affects the front teeth, veneers may offer a durable, natural-looking option for restoring aesthetics.
- Dental Crowns: If a larger portion of the tooth is lost, a crown may be recommended to fully restore its structure and function.
- Root Canal Therapy: When the fracture reaches the inner pulp or nerve, root canal treatment may be necessary to prevent infection and save the tooth.
We carefully evaluate the extent of the damage and recommend the most appropriate solution to restore both the function and appearance of your tooth.
Take Action Quickly to Protect Your Smile
Dental injuries like chipped or broken teeth should not be ignored. Even small cracks can lead to bigger problems if left untreated.
The sooner you seek dental care, the easier it is to prevent complications and restore the health and appearance of your teeth.
At Hampden Ave Dental, we provide prompt and expert care for dental emergencies. To schedule same-day care for a dental emergency, please call us at 303-985-1263 or request an appointment online.
