{"id":114,"date":"2021-07-06T16:56:00","date_gmt":"2021-07-06T16:56:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.deandentalcare.com\/blog\/?p=114"},"modified":"2021-08-04T16:59:01","modified_gmt":"2021-08-04T16:59:01","slug":"what-to-do-if-you-chipped-tooth","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.deandentalcare.com\/blog\/2021\/07\/06\/what-to-do-if-you-chipped-tooth\/","title":{"rendered":"Do You Have a Chipped Tooth? Here\u2019s What You Should Do"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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While having lunch with friends, you bite into something hard when suddenly, your tooth chips. Oh no! This incident can be unsettling but rest assured \u2013 remaining calm and following the right steps can help you handle it with ease. If you chipped a tooth, here\u2019s what to do to alleviate discomfort and avoid permanent damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Rinse Your Mouth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The first thing you should do after chipping or breaking a tooth<\/a> is to rinse your mouth. Swish with warm water to keep the area clean and wash away any blood or dirt. If a part of your broken tooth is still in your mouth, rinsing will help get it out and prevent you from swallowing it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stop the Bleeding<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re bleeding, use a clean towel or gauze to apply pressure to the area and help stop it. It also lowers your risk of swallowing excess blood. Try not to scrub or irritate the site as it can cause discomfort and even increase bleeding. If the bleeding is excessive and you can\u2019t control it, dial 911 or go to the closest emergency room right away. Your injuries may be more than just a chipped tooth and require immediate medical assistance.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep the Tooth Safe<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Whether it\u2019s the entire tooth or just a chip, try to save what you can as your dentist may be able to replace it. Gently rinse it with milk or clean water to wash away any debris. Then, immediately submerge it in cold milk, saline solution, or even a small puddle of your saliva to preserve it until you get to your dentist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Apply a Cold Compress<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Apply an ice pack, or another cold compress, to the injured area to alleviate discomfort, reduce swelling, and control bleeding. If you don\u2019t have a cold compress on hand, fill a Ziplock bag with ice and wrap it with a towel before applying.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take Over-the-Counter Pain Medication<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Are you experiencing significant pain? Take an OTC pain reliever to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, and acetaminophen are common medications that can help with discomfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Contact Your Dentist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Even if you aren\u2019t experiencing pain, you should contact your dentist immediately after chipping or breaking a tooth. A fractured tooth can lead to infection and other severe oral health issues down the line, even if it is minor. Schedule an emergency visit<\/a> as soon as possible for immediate treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How Can Your Dentist Treat a Chipped Tooth?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are a few ways your dentist can treat a broken or chipped tooth, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n