Chipping a tooth can happen in an instant. Maybe you bit down on something unexpectedly hard, took a fall, or simply noticed a piece of your tooth was missing after eating. Whatever caused it, seeing a chipped tooth in the mirror can be alarming. The good news is that many chipped teeth can be repaired, so try to stay calm and take a few simple steps while you arrange an appointment.
Call Your Dentist Right Away
Even if the chip seems small and doesn’t hurt, contact your dentist as soon as possible. A chipped tooth can have damage that isn’t immediately visible, and an examination can determine whether the tooth’s structure, nerve, or surrounding tissues have also been affected.
Prompt care is especially important if you’re experiencing significant pain, sensitivity, swelling, bleeding, or difficulty biting. Your dentist can assess the injury and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Save the Piece of Tooth
If you can find the piece that broke off, don’t throw it away. Place it in a clean container and bring it with you to your appointment. Although the fragment may not always be usable for the repair, your dentist can determine whether it can help with treatment.
Rinse and Protect Your Mouth
Gently rinse your mouth with water to clear away any small pieces or debris. If the area is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with clean gauze or a piece of clean cloth.
A chipped tooth may have a sharp edge that can irritate your tongue or cheek. Until you can see your dentist, try to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. If necessary, dental wax can temporarily cover a particularly sharp edge.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
A chip can sometimes expose sensitive layers of the tooth, making hot or cold foods and drinks uncomfortable. Until you’re evaluated, consider avoiding foods and beverages that trigger sensitivity.
You may also want to stick with softer foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth. These steps won’t repair the tooth, but they can help you stay more comfortable while you’re waiting for treatment.
How Can a Chipped Tooth Be Repaired?
The right treatment depends on how much of the tooth was damaged and whether the tooth is otherwise healthy. For a small chip, dental bonding may be enough to restore the tooth’s shape and appearance. A larger fracture may require a dental crown to protect and strengthen the remaining tooth.
In some cases, a damaged tooth may need more extensive restorative treatment. If the tooth’s nerve is affected, root canal treatment may be necessary before restoring it. If a tooth cannot be saved, replacement options such as a dental implant may be considered.
Some dental practices also offer same-day CEREC crowns, which can allow a damaged tooth to be restored with a new crown during a single appointment.
Don’t Ignore a Chipped Tooth
A chipped tooth may seem like a minor inconvenience, but getting it evaluated promptly can help prevent additional damage and get your smile back on track.
About the Practice
Dental Designs of Maryland is a comprehensive dental practice in Hanover offering restorative, cosmetic, implant, and emergency dental care. Our services include dental bonding, crowns, implants, veneers, tooth-colored fillings, and CEREC same-day crowns, providing options for repairing and restoring damaged teeth. The practice’s dentists include Dr. David Levine, who emphasizes comfortable, patient-focused care, and Dr. Diana Fridberg, who prioritizes patient education and creating a low-stress dental experience.
Call us at (443) 936-2899 or schedule your appointment online