Tooth enamel is one of the strongest substances in the human body. However, it is not completely indestructible. If you chip a tooth, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible.
If you're able to rinse your mouth, do so to remove any debris or food particles that might be causing the chip. If you can't reach the damaged tooth, try rinsing the side of your face that is nearest to the missing piece.
Apply gauze or a moistened tea bag to the broken area so that the bleeding stops. If the area is painful, take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help ease the pain.
See your dentist for an evaluation as soon as possible, especially if you notice any swelling or signs of infection, such as redness or fever. Your dentist will be able to determine the extent of the damage and recommend the proper treatment. In some cases, they might recommend avoiding chewing with the affected side or using that area to avoid further damage until your appointment.
Depending on the location and severity of the chip, the dentist might choose to apply a filling or crown to repair the tooth. If your tooth is fractured and the nerve or pulp is exposed, you might need additional treatment, such as a root canal, before the tooth can be restored with a crown or an implant placed.
If you are concerned about the cost of repairing a chipped tooth, talk to your dentist about the various payment options they have available so that you can pick the one that's right for you. They may be able to offer you financing if the procedure isn't covered by your insurance or if you're interested in splitting the cost over several months.
With proper care, your tooth can be restored to health. You might need to take extra steps to protect the tooth from future harm until you visit your dentist, such as using an orthodontic mouth guard at night or avoiding hard foods or sticky candies that can damage the area. Visit your dentist as soon as you can to get help repairing your chipped tooth and preventing further complications.
While it's important to practice proper dental care and avoid damaging your teeth in the first place, accidents do sometimes happen – even to the best of us! That's why it's important to have a plan in place to fix your teeth should disaster strike.
Call us at Rosemont Dental: (301) 663-1144 or schedule an online appointment with the dentist in Frederick to know more.
