Whether it happens while biting into something hard, playing sports, or simply from an unexpected accident, chipping a tooth can be alarming. Your first instinct might be to panic, but try to keep a cool head. A chipped tooth isn’t always a dental emergency, but it’s important to contact your dentist so the damage can be evaluated and treated appropriately.
Call Your Dentist
Even if the chip seems small and doesn’t hurt, give your dentist a call as soon as possible. A seemingly minor chip can sometimes involve more of the tooth than you can see, and sharp edges can irritate your tongue or cheeks.
If you’re experiencing significant pain, bleeding, swelling, or sensitivity, let the dental office know when you call. These symptoms may indicate that you need more urgent care.
Protect the Tooth
Until you can be examined, take steps to prevent the damaged tooth from getting worse. Avoid chewing on the affected side, particularly if the tooth is painful or has lost a significant amount of its structure. Stick with softer foods and avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky options.
If the chipped edge is sharp, you can temporarily cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum to help protect your tongue and cheeks. Rinsing gently with water can also help keep your mouth clean.
If you found a piece of the tooth, bring it with you to your dental appointment. Although it may not always be possible to reattach it, your dentist will want to examine it.
How Is a Chipped Tooth Treated?
Treatment depends on how much of the tooth has been damaged and whether the inner structures of the tooth are affected. For a small chip, cosmetic bonding may be enough to rebuild the missing portion and restore the tooth’s appearance.
A veneer may be another option when the damage primarily affects the visible portion of the tooth. For a tooth with more significant structural damage, a dental crown may provide additional protection and strength. If the chip has exposed or damaged the tooth’s inner pulp, root canal treatment may be necessary before the tooth is restored.
In severe cases where a tooth cannot be repaired, extraction may be recommended. Tooth replacement options can be discussed if extraction is necessary.
Don’t Wait for Pain
One of the trickiest things about a chipped tooth is that it may not hurt at all. That doesn’t necessarily mean there’s nothing to worry about. Damage can leave the tooth more vulnerable to additional breakage or sensitivity.
Getting an evaluation promptly gives your dentist an opportunity to determine the extent of the damage and recommend the most appropriate treatment. In some cases, a quick repair may prevent a small problem from becoming a much bigger one.
What Can You Expect During Your Visit?
During an emergency dental appointment, the first step is usually an examination to determine the extent of the damage. Diagnostic imaging may also be used when necessary to look for problems that aren’t visible during a visual examination.
Depending on the findings, treatment may include cosmetic bonding, a veneer, filling, dental crown, or root canal. If the tooth is too severely damaged to repair, extraction may be necessary. The goal is to choose the treatment that protects your oral health while restoring the tooth’s function and appearance as much as possible.
A chipped tooth can be stressful, but prompt care can help protect your smile and get you back to normal.
About the Practice
Spruce Ridge Dental is a family-owned dental practice serving patients in Spruce Grove and surrounding communities. Dr. Alaa Musbah and Dr. Hanin Musbah are a father-daughter dental team who provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages. The practice offers emergency dentistry along with restorative and cosmetic treatments, including tooth-colored fillings, dental crowns, cosmetic bonding, veneers, and root canal treatment.
Call us at +1 780-962-5538 or schedule your appointment online