A chipped tooth can happen suddenly—whether from biting into something hard, a fall, or an accident during sports. While it may not always seem like an emergency, even a minor chip can lead to further damage or sensitivity if left untreated. Knowing what to do in the moments after chipping a tooth can make a big difference in protecting your oral health.
Immediate Steps to Take After Chipping a Tooth
- Rinse Your Mouth – Use warm water to gently rinse away any debris and keep the area clean.
- Stop Any Bleeding – If there's bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a piece of gauze or a clean cloth until it stops.
- Reduce Swelling and Pain – Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help minimize swelling and discomfort.
- Protect the Tooth – If the chipped area has sharp edges, cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum to prevent irritation to your tongue and cheeks.
- Preserve Any Broken Pieces – If you can find the broken piece, store it in milk or saliva and bring it to your dentist. In some cases, it can be reattached.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
Some chipped teeth are minor and only affect the enamel, while others may expose the dentin (the sensitive layer beneath the enamel) or even the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. If your tooth is causing significant pain, has a deep crack, or appears discolored, see your dentist as soon as possible. Delaying treatment could lead to infection or further damage.
Treatment Options for a Chipped Tooth
Your dentist will assess the extent of the damage and recommend a treatment based on the severity of the chip:
- For Small Chips: Dental bonding, a tooth-colored resin, can be used to reshape the tooth.
- For Moderate Chips: A dental veneer or crown may be necessary to restore function and appearance.
- For Severe Chips or Cracks: If the damage extends to the pulp, a root canal may be required before restoring the tooth with a crown.
Even if your chipped tooth isn’t causing pain, don’t ignore it. Prompt treatment ensures the best outcome and prevents more extensive (and costly) dental procedures in the future.