What to do if you Chip or Break a Tooth

Chipping a tooth can be very painful and also a bit frightening. Knowing what to do can help you take care of the problem. If you follow specific steps after a tooth is chipped or broken, your dentist may be able to save the tooth through bonding or by sealing the tooth. Your dentist can also prevent an infection.

Steps to Take for a Chipped or Broken Tooth

Follow these steps if you chip or break a tooth.

• 1. Rinse with water or saltwater. This will help clean out any debris or dirt and will prevent bacteria from growing on the broken part of the tooth. Rinsing with water or saltwater can also help stop the bleeding.

2. Find the broken piece. If you hope to preserve the missing part of the tooth, start by locating the broken piece. If you do find it, put it in a saline solution or milk. If a saline solution or milk is not available, then put the broken piece in water. If in the event your tooth is on the verge of falling out, do not remove it. Leave your tooth in place until you are able to get to the dentist.

3. Manage the pain. Chipping, breaking, or losing a tooth can be very painful. You can reduce the pain with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicine. Put ice or a cold compress on your face around the impacted area to restrict the blood vessels and reduce pain while controlling the bleeding.

4. See your dentist ASAP. Once you've recovered the piece of your tooth that's broken and you've managed your pain, it's time to get to the dentist as soon as possible. Call ahead to your dentist to alert them that you're coming. Hopefully, your dentist can repair your tooth and stop the pain with a numbing gel. Time is of the essence when you chip or break a tooth, so do not wait!

Chips That Need a Dentist

So, how will you know if you need to see a dentist? Basically, any damage to your tooth except the smallest cracks or chips will require you to see a professional. There are no effective home remedies to prevent further injury. In addition, untreated damage could lead to a root canal, tooth loss, or other complications.

Most people can tell if they've chipped a tooth because the enamel will feel rough and broken; however, a cracked tooth is not always so obvious. Signs include intermittent pain, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, pain when you bite down, and pain when you chew.

Because a broken tooth can cause such problems, it's best to consult with a dentist, even if you think your tooth is probably alright.

Did you knock out or break a tooth? This is a dental emergency. Find the tooth or the chip, and get to your dentist right away. Call Williams, Daily & Frazier Dental, your emergency dentist in Raleigh. Contact us today to get your tooth the attention it needs before permanent damage is done.