Breaking or chipping a tooth can be a stressful experience. Whether it’s due to an accident, biting something too hard, or an injury, it’s important to know how to respond immediately and how to treat the damage once it’s been done. Here’s a guide on what to do if you find yourself in this situation, and how to manage the damage until you can see a dentist.
Immediate Actions When a Tooth Breaks or Chips
Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
First, take a deep breath. A broken or chipped tooth can be unsettling, but it’s important to stay calm. Assess the severity of the damage. If it’s just a small chip, the tooth may not need emergency care, but if it’s a larger break or the tooth is causing pain or bleeding, it’s best to seek professional help right away.
Rinse Your Mouth
Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area around the broken tooth. This will help remove any debris and reduce the risk of infection. Be gentle, as your tooth may be sensitive after the damage.
Control Any Bleeding
If the break has caused bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze until the bleeding stops. If the bleeding continues for a prolonged period, or if it’s severe, it’s important to seek emergency dental care immediately.
Use a Cold Compress
If you notice swelling around the broken tooth, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. This can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Just be sure to wrap the ice or cold pack in a cloth to prevent direct contact with your skin.
Save the Broken Piece
If a large piece of the tooth has broken off, try to find it and save it. Rinse it gently with water and store it in a clean container with milk or saline solution. Some dentists may be able to reattach the broken piece if the damage is minimal.
Cover Sharp Edges
If the break leaves sharp edges that could injure your tongue or gums, use dental wax (available at most pharmacies) to cover them temporarily. This will help protect the soft tissues in your mouth until you can get dental care.
Avoid Eating on the Affected Side
Until you can see a dentist, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the tooth is broken. Eating soft foods will reduce the risk of causing more damage. Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that could make the situation worse.
When Should You See a Dentist?
A broken or chipped tooth is not always an emergency, but it’s still important to seek professional care. Here’s what to expect when you visit a dentist:
The dentist will examine the tooth to assess the extent of the damage. They will check if the tooth is just superficially chipped or if it extends deeper into the tooth, possibly affecting the nerve.
Treatment Options:
Bonding: For small chips, the dentist may use a tooth-colored resin to bond and restore the shape of the tooth.
Crowns: If the break is significant, a crown may be necessary to cover and protect the tooth.
Root Canal: If the break exposes the tooth’s nerve, a root canal may be required to remove the damaged tissue and prevent infection.
Veneers: For cosmetic cases, especially with front teeth, veneers may be used to restore the appearance of the tooth.
Conclusion
A broken or chipped tooth doesn’t have to be the end of your smile. By staying calm and following these simple steps, you can manage the situation effectively and get the proper care you need. Whether it’s a minor chip or a more serious break, a dentist can help restore the tooth to its original function and appearance.
If you’ve experienced a broken or chipped tooth, don’t wait too long to get treatment. Contact Enhance Dental Centre to ensure the best outcome and to keep your smile intact.