There are a myriad of reasons that you might’ve chipped your tooth. A snack might’ve fought back, or you used your teeth as tools, but you may be worried about this situation regardless of what happened. Before you get too stressed, you should first take a deep breath. Once you get a bit calmer, you should then take these steps to preserve your oral health from any more harm and know that your emergency dentist is here to help.
What To Do in the Moment
Depending on how big the chip is, you may be bleeding from it. You should try your best to get it under control by applying pressure with a gauze or clean towel. If you notice that it is still persisting or seems excessive, then visit your local emergency room, and they can help you stop it. Be sure not to scrub the area, as it can irritate it as well.
If you can stop the bleeding, then you should rinse your mouth with warm salt water next. This can help wash away harmful bacteria and debris in your mouth while reducing inflammation.
Your tooth may hurt a bit, so you can take pain relievers to help make it more comfortable. There may also be a sharp edge left over, so cover it with sugar-free gum or dental wax. You should also avoid eating on that side of your mouth, as it can worsen the damage!
Reach Out to Your Emergency Dentist
No matter if it’s a minor or major chip, call your dentist once you have the situation handled. Even if you aren’t in any discomfort, your tooth’s integrity may be weakened, so waiting too long to get it fixed can lead to more problems down the line, like an infection.
Your provider will likely see you as soon as possible, sometimes on the same day! Once you get in their chair, they’ll do an oral assessment and find treatment options that are right for you. If it’s small and only a cosmetic issue, then cosmetic bonding can help fill in the damage. You can also consider veneers, as they can last up to 15 years with proper care.
Severe damage oftentimes needs a restorative treatment to be effective at fixing it. You can get a traditional or one-visit crown that can make it function and look normal. For some patients, they may need a root canal or an extraction, but these are rare cases. Your dentist will find what is right for you and help renew your smile, so you can feel confident showing it off once again.
About the Author
Dr. Beverly Rose earned her dental degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. She now has nearly 30 years of experience that she uses to give the Melbourne community the expert care they deserve. Dr. Rose is here for your dental emergencies, such as a chipped tooth, with same-day visits that help get you relief right away. By giving you the effective treatment you need, you can feel your best in no time!
If you suddenly found yourself in this situation, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling (321) 259-4666.