A chipped or fractured tooth can be pretty painful. Whether it is a small chip from biting down on something hard or a more significant break due to an accident, the immediate aftermath can leave you wondering what to do next.
However, there is a solution to deal with such a situation. Consulting an emergency dental clinic in Toronto can help you tackle this condition in a much better manner, providing proper relief in such times.
In this article, you will learn things to do when you chip or break a tooth. You will explore various first-aid options and long-term dental solutions that will help you protect your oral health and restore your smile.
Table of Contents
Things To Do When You Break Or Chip Your Tooth:
Here are some essential things you need to do immediately after a tooth injury. Prompt action is crucial as it minimises pain, prevents further damage, and improves the chances of a successful repair.
Stay Calm and Composed:
While it is easy yet painful to panic, you need to remain calm. Panicking can make it harder to think clearly and take further steps.
Rinse Your Mouth:
You should gently rinse your mouth with warm water. This will help clean the area, removing any debris and getting some immediate relief. If there is any bleeding, you need to rinse your mouth with warm saltwater for better outcomes.
Apply Pressure in Case of Bleeding:
In case there is any bleeding from the gum around the chipped tooth, you need to gently apply pressure with a clean piece of gauze or a clean cloth for 10-15 minutes. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, consult an emergency dentist immediately.
Lower Swelling:
If there is any swelling, apply a cold compress or an ice pack to the outside of your cheek, near the injured area. This will help you reduce swelling and numb the pain. You should apply for 15-20 minutes at a time with breaks in between.
Locate and Preserve Any Tooth Fragments:
If a piece of your tooth has broken off, try to find it. Handle the tooth carefully and avoid touching any broken surface. Rinse the fragment gently with water. Furthermore, if possible, place the fragment in a container of milk or your saliva.
Avoid putting the fragment in plain water to prevent damage to the tooth cells. Keeping the fragment moist will sometimes help the dentist reattach it effectively, especially if it is a large piece.
Manage Pain:
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help you manage discomfort. You need to follow the dosage instructions provided by your emergency dentist. Avoid applying aspirin if there is any bleeding, as it will thin the blood.
Avoid Chewing on the Injured Side:
Until you consult a dentist, you should refrain from putting any pressure on the chipped or broken tooth. You should stick to soft foods to avoid further damage and irritation.
When To Consult A Dentist: Urgency And Assessment?
Even if the chip seems minor and there is no pain, you need to consult a dentist as soon as possible. What might seem to be a cosmetic issue might be an underlying structural problem that requires attention.
Here’s what you need to consider while planning to consult a dentist for this issue:
Emergency Dental Visit:
You need to visit an emergency dentist when you are suffering from severe pain that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter pain medication. If there is a visible pulp that looks reddish or pinkish spot, an extensive bleeding from the tooth or gum, or a tooth that has been entirely knocked out or avulsed, you need to go to the emergency dentist as soon as possible.
You should also consider visiting the dentist if you are experiencing difficulty speaking or swallowing, or if there is a swelling that spreads to the face or jaw.
Urgent Dental Visit Within 24 Hours:
You need to visit your dentist within 24 hours if there is:
- Any noticeable chip or crack, even if it is not painful.
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
- A sharp edge on the broken tooth that is cutting your tongue or cheek.
- A loose tooth.
Routine Dental Visit(As Soon as Possible):
You need to visit a dentist regularly in case there are minor chips with no pain or sensitivity. Although it seems to be less urgent, addressing even small chips can prevent them from worsening. This will further protect your tooth from decay.
Dental Solutions For Chipped Or Broken Teeth
The treatment for a chipped or broken tooth depends on the extent of the damage. Your dentist will analyse the injury and recommend the most suitable course of action.
Dental Bonding:
Dental bonding is a process suitable for smaller chips. It is a common and quite inexpensive solution. A tooth-coloured composite resin material is applied to the tooth, moulded to the desired shape, and then hardened with a special light.
In this procedure, the dentist will prepare the tooth surface by etching it with a mild acid gel. The bonding material is then applied, shaped, and polished to match the surrounding tooth.
Dental Veneers:
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are typically made of porcelain or composite resin. Veneers cover the front surface of the tooth. They are the right option for the most significant chips or cracks, especially on front teeth, where aesthetics are a major concern.
To apply dental veneers, a small amount of enamel is usually removed from the tooth surface to accommodate the veneer. An impression of the tooth is taken, and the veneer is custom-fabricated in a dental lab. Once ready, it is bonded to the tooth.
Apart from these two options, the dentist will also install a dental crown or perform root canal treatment to ensure better outcomes. They will also perform tooth extractions, if deemed necessary.
To Summarize:
A chipped or broken tooth can leave you distressed. However, with prompt action and professional dental care, you can ensure proper restoration of your smile. All you need to do is follow the above-mentioned tips, which will further help you ensure a better outcome and a well-preserved smile.
About the Author:Hello, I am Leker Britannia, the pinnacle of unlimited vitality and an unwavering commitment to a healthy lifestyle! I am a seasoned content writer and health lover, has mastered the art of writing fascinating pieces that motivate readers to embrace wellness in all of its forms. I work exudes a great blend of competence and passion, with a talent for finding hidden jewels of knowledge in the health and fitness realm. https://emergency-dental-365.com/
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