Dental Emergency: What to Do If You Chip or Break a Tooth
A dental emergency can strike at any moment and often when you least expect it. One of the most common ones has always been a chipped or broken tooth—and it can be painful and alarming. Whether it happens during a sports accident, a fall, or simply through biting into something hard, dental emergencies can be stressful.
Given this, how prepared are you for dental emergencies? If you don’t know how to handle and what to do at this, now is the best time to learn what to do if you chip or break a tooth. Knowing what causes the incident and understanding what to do when you experience chipped teeth can help you stay calm and take the right steps to protect your dental health.
What Causes Chipping Teeth
Chipped teeth can occur for different reasons, and it can happen at any time. Understanding these causes can help you avoid potential risks and protect your dental health. The common causes of chipped teeth typically include:
Accidents and Trauma
Falls, sports injuries, or accidents that can result in accidents that may have permanent damage to your teeth. When your teeth are not protected, especially when playing a sport, there’s no doubt that your teeth can be prone to accidents that will lead to chips or breaks. Wearing protective gear, such as mouthguards, can lower the risk of getting injured.
Biting Hard Objects
Biting down on hard foods like ice, nuts, or candies can put excessive pressure on your teeth, increasing the risk of damage. If you do these constantly, your teeth will be at high risk of getting chipped. It’s best to avoid using your teeth to open packages or crack nuts.
Tooth Decay and Cavities
Decay or cavities sure make your teeth risky of getting chipped or broken. Avoid this by getting regular dental check-ups and practising good oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay and maintain the strength of your teeth.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
When you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth during sleep, the action can wear down the enamel and make teeth more prone to chipping. The best thing to do is to get a custom-fitted night guard that can protect your teeth if you grind them.
Age and Wear
As we age, our teeth naturally wear down and become more susceptible to damage. This natural wear can make matters worse by certain habits and dietary choices.
Immediate Steps to Take If You Chip or Break a Tooth
Acquiring knowledge about first-aid response treatments can help you become equipped in case emergencies arise—including dental emergencies. Knowing what to do if your teeth chip can help prevent further damage and alleviate pain.
Follow these steps in case of dental accidents:
Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
First and foremost, stay calm and assess the extent of the damage. If the damage is still bearable, over-the-counter pain relievers can help. A small chip may not require immediate attention, but larger breaks or sharp edges can cause more serious issues.
Rinse Your Mouth
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the area and remove any debris. This can also help you identify if there are any additional injuries inside your mouth. In case you suspect that there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the area with a clean gauze pad to stop the bleeding.
Save Any Pieces of the Tooth
If possible, locate and save any pieces of the chipped or broken tooth. Store them in a clean container with milk or saliva, as this can help preserve the fragments until you see a dentist. It’s important to keep the tooth moist and the calcium alive.
Manage Pain and Swelling
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can reduce swelling and numb the area. You can also rinse your mouth with salt water to clean the area and soothe irritation.
Protect Your Mouth
If the chipped or broken tooth has a sharp edge, cover it with dental wax or sugarless gum to prevent it from cutting your tongue or cheek.
Seek Professional Help for Chipped Teeth
After you’re done administering your first-aid response to your dental emergency, the next thing for you to do is to seek professional help from a dentist.
Regardless of the severity of the chip, it’s important to seek professional dental care right away. Book a dental emergency appointment with a dentist to assess the damage and recommend appropriate treatment.
Here are some common treatments for chipped or broken teeth:
Bonding or Filling
For minor chips, dental bonding or a filling can be used to repair the tooth. This involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to restore the tooth’s appearance and function.
Dental Veneers
For more significant chips or breaks, veneers can be an excellent option. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of the tooth. This can help restore the function and appearance of your teeth.
Dental Crowns
When a large portion of your tooth is damaged, your dentist may also recommend a dental crown for your condition. Crowns can cover the entire tooth, like a helmet that restores its shape, strength, and appearance.
Root Canal Treatment
In rare cases where the chip exposes the tooth’s pulp, your dentist might advise you to get a root canal to remove infected tissue and prevent further complications. The tooth is then sealed and typically protected with a crown.
Knowledge is Power During Dental Emergencies
Dealing with a dental emergency is not anyone’s cup of tea, especially when a chipped or broken tooth is involved. But knowing what to do if you chipped your teeth, and called for prompt professional care can make a significant difference. Remember to stay calm, take immediate steps to protect your tooth, and consult a dentist as soon as possible.
If you’ve experienced a chipped or broken tooth, don’t wait—contact Blue Gum Dental today for expert care and advice. Our team is here to help you restore your smile and maintain your dental health. Call us at 08 9316 2603 now in case of a dental emergency.