Steps for Addressing a Chipped Tooth

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them to—and they often happen when it’s incredibly inconvenient! Here’s more from your emergency dentist in Rome about what to do when you suffer a chipped tooth along with some common treatment options that are used to address the issue.  

Steps for Addressing a Chipped or Broken Tooth

If you suffer a chipped tooth, you don’t need to panic! Stay calm and follow these preliminary steps:

1. Contact Your Dentist Immediately – Your dentist will be able to determine when you need to be seen. Even if you aren’t experiencing pain or discomfort, the tooth needs to be addressed quickly. Chipped teeth with weakened enamel are more vulnerable to decay and other problems!
2. Rinse Out Your Mouth – Immediately rinse out your mouth with warm water to help keep the affected area clean and clear of any blood, dirt, or other debris. If the part of your tooth that chipped off is still in your mouth, this can help to prevent you from accidentally swallowing or biting it.
3. Stop the Bleeding – If the injury is bleeding, apply pressure to the area with gauze or a clean towel. This should stop the bleeding and prevent you from swallowing excess blood! Do not scrub the affected area or irritate It further; steady pressure with minimal movement is all you need.
4. Preserve the Tooth – If your tooth has separated from your mouth, locate it as quickly as possible to increase the likelihood of it being saved. If there are pieces of your tooth that need to be recovered, store them in a protective container and bring them to your appointment, if possible.
5. Manage the Pain – Applying a cold compress to the injured area can help to alleviate pain and reduce swelling. The cold also constricts your blood vessels and slows the blood flow to that part of the mouth, which can also help to stop any bleeding. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can also help.

Common Treatment Options for Chipped or Broken Teeth

There are quite a few different ways that a dentist can choose to repair a chipped or broken tooth, though it will depend on the severity of the damage. Some common options include:

• Porcelain veneers
• Dental fillings
• Dental bridges or implants (for displaced teeth)
• Crowns & metal-free restorations

In any case, practicing good oral habits can also help to lower the likelihood of suffering a chipped tooth, which will save you a lot of trouble to begin with! However, accidents can still happen, and if you find yourself with a chipped tooth, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist promptly.

About the Author

Dr. Ryan Weldon received his dental doctorate from the Medical College of Georgia and has proudly served the dental needs of the Rome, GA area for over a decade. Dr. Weldon is also an active member of the American Dental Association and the prestigious Academy of General Dentistry. His practice is pleased to offer many available services including emergency dentistry. If you or a loved one has chipped a tooth, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment: (706) 232-2082.