Broken or Chipped Tooth? What You Need to Know

Having a broken or chipped tooth can be a painful and unsettling experience. Whether the chip occurred due to an accident, injury, or underlying dental issues, knowing how to handle the situation is crucial.

Here are some steps you can take when faced with a broken or chipped tooth, and provide tips to ensure you receive the best possible care.

1. Assess the Damage

The first step is to assess the extent of the damage. Not all dental injuries are the same, and understanding the severity of the issue can help you make informed decisions about how to proceed.

Minor Chip

If only a tiny piece of enamel has chipped off, it may not be particularly painful. Nevertheless, even minor chips should be addressed to prevent further damage and potential infection.

Moderate Chip

A more substantial chip may expose the sensitive dentin layer, leading to heightened sensitivity or pain. Assess the size of the chip and any potential jagged edges.

Severe Break

In the case of a severe break, where a significant portion of the tooth is missing, you may experience severe pain and bleeding. Immediate dental care is essential in this situation.

2. Rinse Your Mouth

Once you've assessed the damage, it's important to rinse your mouth with warm water. This helps remove debris or blood, providing a clearer view of the injury.

Gently swish the water around your mouth and spit it out. Be careful not to swallow any loose fragments of the tooth.

3. Save the Tooth Fragment

If you have a broken piece of the tooth, try to save it. Place it in a clean container with some milk or saliva. This can be helpful to keep the tooth "alive" long enough for your dentist to evaluate whether the fragment can be reattached.

4. Manage Pain and Swelling

If you're experiencing pain or swelling, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help ease discomfort.

Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area can reduce swelling. However, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is crucial to address the root cause of your pain.

5. Cover Sharp Edges

If there are sharp or jagged edges on the broken tooth, you can use dental wax or sugar-free gum to cover them. This makeshift solution will help protect your tongue, cheeks, and lips from getting cut.

6. Avoid Certain Foods

While waiting for professional dental care, avoiding very hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods is best, as these can exacerbate sensitivity or pain. Stick to a soft diet to prevent further damage.

7. Visit Your Dentist

Ultimately, the most vital step in dealing with a broken or chipped tooth is to see a local dentist promptly.

Dental injuries require professional attention, as they can worsen if left untreated. Your dentist will assess the damage and recommend the appropriate treatment, which may include:

• Bonding: For minor chips, your dentist can use tooth-coloured resin to repair the damaged area, restoring its appearance and function.
• Dental Crowns: Severe chips or breaks may require a dental crown covering and protecting the damaged tooth.
• Root Canal: If the tooth's pulp is exposed or damaged, a root canal may be necessary to remove infected or damaged tissue.
• Extraction: Extraction may be the only option in extreme cases where the tooth cannot be saved.
• Dental Implants: Dental implants provide a durable and natural-looking replacement if a tooth is lost.

Dealing with a broken or chipped tooth can be distressing, but knowing how to respond is crucial for oral health.
Always seek professional dental care to ensure the best outcome, and don't delay addressing the issue. With prompt attention and the proper treatment, your smile can be restored, and you can return to optimal oral health.