What to do if you chip a tooth
Chipping a tooth can happen to anyone—whether you're biting into something hard, playing sports or experiencing an unexpected accident. While it might seem like a minor issue, a chipped tooth requires prompt attention to prevent further damage and potential complications. Understanding the immediate steps to take, temporary solutions and professional treatment options can make all the difference in preserving your oral health and preventing more serious problems down the road.
Immediate steps to take after chipping a tooth
When you chip a tooth, your first actions are crucial for minimizing damage and protecting your oral health. Here's what you should do right away:
Rinse your mouth with warm water
Start by gently rinsing your mouth with warm water to clean the area and remove any debris. This helps you assess the damage and prevents bacteria from entering the chipped area.
Apply pressure to stop bleeding
If there's bleeding from your gums or soft tissues, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze. Most bleeding from a chipped tooth should stop within a few minutes.
Use a cold compress for swelling
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time. This helps reduce swelling and can provide some pain relief. Avoid applying ice directly to your skin—wrap it in a cloth first.
Save the broken piece if possible
No matter if it's a chipped front tooth or a broken molar, if you can find the piece of tooth that broke off, rinse it gently with water and store it in a small container with milk or saliva. While it's not always possible to reattach the piece, bringing it to your dentist or endodontist can be helpful.
Manage pain appropriately
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. Follow the package instructions and avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth, as this can damage your gums.
Temporary solutions while waiting for professional care
While you're waiting to see a dental professional, there are several temporary measures you can take to protect your chipped tooth and maintain comfort:
Dental wax or temporary filling material
You can find temporary dental filling material at most pharmacies. These products can cover sharp edges and protect the exposed tooth structure. Dental wax, often used for braces, can also help smooth rough edges that might cut your tongue or cheek.
Stick to soft foods
Modify your diet to include soft foods that won't put additional stress on the damaged tooth. Avoid hard, crunchy or chewy foods that could worsen the chip or cause further damage.
Practice gentle oral hygiene
Continue brushing and flossing, but be extra gentle around the chipped area. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and consider using a saltwater rinse to help keep the area clean.
Professional dental treatments for chipped teeth
The type of treatment you'll need depends on the size and location of the chip. Here are the most common professional options:
Dental bonding for small chips
For minor chips, dental bonding is often the preferred treatment. During this procedure, your dentist applies a tooth-colored composite resin to restore the tooth's shape and appearance. The material is molded to match your natural tooth and then hardened with a special light.
Veneers for front teeth
If the chip is on a front tooth and affects your smile, your dentist might recommend a veneer. These thin porcelain shells cover the front surface of the tooth, providing both cosmetic improvement and protection.
Crowns for extensive damage
When a large portion of the tooth is missing or the tooth is significantly weakened, a crown might be necessary. This involves covering the entire visible portion of the tooth with a cap that restores both function and appearance.
Root canal therapy for exposed pulp
If the chip is deep enough to expose the tooth's pulp (the inner tissue containing nerves and blood vessels), root canal therapy may be required. This is where the expertise of a board-certified endodontist like Dr. Francisco Nieves here at Granbury Endodontics becomes invaluable.
Root canal therapy involves removing the infected or inflamed pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and sealing it to prevent further infection. This procedure can save your natural tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
Preventing future tooth chips
Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk of chipping teeth in the future:
Wear protective gear during sports
If you participate in contact sports or activities with a risk of facial injury, always wear a properly fitted mouthguard. Custom-made mouthguards from your dentist provide the best protection.
Avoid chewing hard objects
Don't use your teeth as tools to open packages, crack nuts or chew on ice, pens or other hard objects. These habits put unnecessary stress on your teeth and increase the risk of chips and cracks.
Address teeth grinding
If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), talk to your dentist about getting a nightguard. Teeth grinding can weaken tooth structure over time, making chips more likely.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene
Strong, healthy teeth are less likely to chip. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly and visit your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups.
Be mindful of your diet
Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks that can weaken tooth enamel. When you do consume these items, rinse with water afterward and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing.
When to seek emergency dental care
While all chipped teeth should be evaluated by a dental professional, certain situations require immediate attention:
Severe pain that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medications
Significant bleeding that won't stop
Sharp edges that are cutting your tongue or cheek
Signs of infection like fever, swelling or pus
A large chip that exposes the pink tissue inside the tooth
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact an endodontist or visit an emergency room right away.
Don't wait—protect your smile today
A chipped tooth might seem like a minor inconvenience, but ignoring it can lead to serious complications including root canal infection, further tooth damage and the potential need for more extensive treatment. The sooner you address a chipped tooth, the better your chances of preserving your natural tooth and maintaining optimal oral health.
If you've chipped a tooth, don't let anxiety about dental procedures delay your care. Modern endodontic technology has made treatments more comfortable and effective than ever before. Board-certified endodontists like Dr. Francisco Nieves here at Granbury Endodontics have the specialized training and advanced technology to provide the highest level of care.
Remember, seeking prompt professional attention for a chipped tooth isn't just about fixing the immediate problem—it's about protecting your long-term oral health and preventing more serious complications that could affect your overall well-being.
Don't wait for the problem to worsen. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward restoring your smile and protecting your oral health.