A chipped tooth can end up causing mild to severe damage. Knowing what to do if you chip your tooth can make a big difference in whether or not you need to have the tooth repaired or extracted.
What Are the Types of Tooth Damage?
In some cases, chipped teeth only cause damage to the outer tooth covering known as enamel, which can be easily fixed. In more severe cases, chipped teeth can cause damage that reaches the inner parts of the affected teeth or their roots. You can get chipped teeth from different causes, including trauma or injuries, cavities or tooth decay, teeth grinding and poor dental hygiene. You can also chip a tooth if you bite down on hard food or item.
What to Do for a Chipped Tooth?
If you have a chipped tooth, you should rinse your mouth to keep the tooth clean. Use warm water rather than cold or hot water. You can gently hold gauze on the area if you have bleeding. You should see your dentist as soon as you can to have your chipped tooth examined and repaired. If you’re unable to do so until the following day, you can cover your tooth with dental cement from your local drugstore to help protect it.
How to Temporarily Repair a Chipped Tooth at Home
Dental cement can serve as a temporary repair for a chipped tooth. This substance provides a covering for the affected area, which helps keep bacteria and other germs out until you are able to see your dentist.
What Are the First Aid Options for a Chipped Tooth?
First aid options for a chipped tooth include applying gauze to stop any bleeding you might have. You can also place dental cement on the affected tooth to lower your risk of additional damage or an infection.
Can Dental Bonding Fix My Chipped Tooth?
Dental bonding might be used to fix your chipped tooth depending on how severe it is. Your dentist can use bonding if you have a minor or moderate chipped tooth. However, you might need to discuss other options if you have a serious chip that reaches to the nerves and roots of your tooth.
When to Get Veneers to Fix a Broken Tooth?
Veneers can help cover up a chipped tooth and restore a more normal appearance. Your dentist might recommend dental veneers if you have a broken tooth that isn’t severe. Minor chips and cracks can be covered up with veneers, but larger or more serious chips and cracks usually need a different type of treatment.
Is a Dental Implant Necessary for a Chipped or Broken Tooth?
A dental implant isn’t always necessary for a chipped or broken tooth. In moderate or more severe cases, your dentist might recommend a dental implant, such as a crown or cap.
When to See a Dentist for a Chipped Tooth?
You should plan on seeing your dentist anytime you have a chipped tooth, even if it’s minor. Your dentist can make sure that no additional damage has occurred and properly repair your chipped tooth as needed.
If you have a chipped tooth and need treatment, make an appointment today or call our office at 860-667-2600. At Cedar Mountain Dental, our team is committed to providing high-quality care for all your dental needs.