What to Do if You Chip Your Tooth

Everyone likes surprises, but not when it comes to chipping a tooth! Unfortunately, however, accidents do happen- but knowing what to do in a dental emergency can help you stay calm, collected, and protect your smile from further damage.

Here’s what you should do if you accidentally chip your tooth, and a few options for restoring it with the help of your dentist!

Handling a Chipped Tooth

The first thing to remember when you accidentally injure your tooth is to remain calm and try not to panic. Next, head to a sink or get a bottle of water, and rinse your mouth out well, being careful to clear out any dirt, food, or pieces of your broken tooth. If you find any fragments, save them for your dentist.

If your tooth or mouth is bleeding, apply pressure to the wounded area by holding a clean washcloth or a piece of gauze to it until it stops. If the bleeding doesn’t stop within about ten minutes or you are suffering from a life-threatening emergency, go to the nearest ER or call 911 immediately.

If your tooth has become knocked out completely, don’t store it in water. Instead, keep it in a container of milk, saline, saliva, or a tooth preservation kit. You can also keep it in the socket and hold it in place with gauze. If it is loose but still attached, do not pull on it or move it around. It is important to note that if you have completely knocked your tooth out, it is recommended that you attempt to reattach it within about 30 minutes, as your tooth begins to die within about 15 minutes.

Next, call your emergency dentist and explain your injury. Depending on the severity, you may require a same-day appointment. If the chip is only minor or not painful, you may be able to wait a day or so to be seen, but don’t wait too long, as chipped teeth are vulnerable to infection.

Until You Can See Your Dentist

If you can’t see your dentist immediately, it’s important to take good care of your damaged tooth until it can be treated.  If the chip has left a jagged edge, you can protect your tongue and cheeks by covering it with a small piece of dental wax, but don’t use it on large chips, as this can injure your tooth further when you go to remove it.

If you need to eat, avoid chewing on the side of the mouth with your chipped tooth. To care for it, floss around it gently, but only if it’s not loose.

To alleviate pain, you can try an OTC pain reliever or apply a cold compress to your face over the broken tooth.

Repairing a Chipped Tooth

After your tooth is examined, you and your dentist can discuss restoration options. If the chip isn’t too big, you may be able to repair it with dental bonding, which uses tooth-colored composite resin to replace the missing portion of the tooth. This is the same material that your dentist uses in tooth-colored fillings. It is durable, natural-looking, and can be done in just a few minutes.

For larger chips, you may need a dental crown, porcelain veneer, or if it cannot be saved, a dental implant or dental bridge. Your dentist can discuss your options with you at your emergency appointment, and help you find a solution that works for your smile and your budget.

Remember, accidents will happen, and unfortunately sometimes those accidents include chipped teeth. The important thing to remember is to stay calm, act quickly, and follow your dentist’s instructions, and your smile will be whole again in no time!

About Our Practice

At Collins St. Dental of Arlington, Dr. Patel and Dr. Gajera aren’t just siblings, they’re the dynamic duo of dentists that are here for you during your dental emergency. If you have a chipped or injured tooth, a toothache, or any other oral health emergency, please don’t delay getting urgent care. Call us as soon as possible at 817-524-6654.