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Chipping a tooth can happen when you least expect it. Whether it’s caused by biting into something hard, a sports injury, a fall, or an accident, a chipped tooth can be alarming. While some chips are minor and primarily cosmetic, others can affect the structure of the tooth and require prompt dental care.
If you’ve chipped a tooth, knowing what steps to take can help protect your smile and prevent further damage.
Rinse Your Mouth
The first thing you should do is gently rinse your mouth with warm water. This helps remove any debris and keeps the area clean. If the injury caused bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a piece of clean gauze until the bleeding stops.
If you can locate any broken pieces of the tooth, save them and bring them with you to your dental appointment. In some cases, your dentist may be able to use the fragment during treatment.
Reduce Swelling and Discomfort
A chipped tooth may be accompanied by swelling, especially if the injury involved trauma to the mouth or face. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.
If needed, over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage soreness until you can see your dentist. However, avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums, as it can irritate soft tissues.
Protect the Tooth
A chipped tooth can leave sharp or rough edges that may irritate your tongue, cheeks, or lips. If the damaged area is causing discomfort, you can temporarily cover it with dental wax, which is available at many pharmacies.
Try to avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth and stay away from hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could worsen the damage.
Contact Your Dentist
Even if the chip seems minor, it’s important to schedule a dental evaluation. What appears to be a small cosmetic issue may actually involve deeper damage to the tooth.
Your dentist will examine the tooth and determine the most appropriate treatment. Depending on the size and location of the chip, options may include:
- Dental bonding.
- A dental crown.
- Veneers.
- Tooth-colored fillings.
- Root canal therapy for more severe injuries.
Prompt treatment can help prevent complications such as sensitivity, infection, or additional fractures.
While some chipped teeth may not cause immediate pain, they should never be ignored. Small chips can become larger over time, and untreated damage may compromise the strength of the tooth.
About the Author
Dr. Francisca A. Sanchez has more than 20 years of experience practicing dentistry. She attended the Columbia School of Dental Medicine where she completed her Advanced Education in General Dentistry. She also received state-of-the-art training in dental implant placement from the University of Florida. Today, Dr. Sanchez is a member of the New York Dental Association and the American Dental Association. If you have a dental emergency that needs tending to, book online or call our New York office at (646) 669-7407.