The First Thing You Should Do If You Chip A Tooth

Although tooth enamel is some of the toughest tissue in the body, it is still possible for it to chip and crack, according to Dr. Kasen Somana of Signature Dentistry. Tooth decay can weaken enamel, as well as consuming sugary or acidic foods. Enamel also weakens with age, and all of these factors can make you more susceptible to a tooth chip. 

If you chip a tooth, you should call your dentist's office to make an appointment as soon as possible. Keep in mind that although it may be an emergency, you may have to wait to book an appointment to address the issue. In the meantime, there are several things you can do to reduce your discomfort. Flossing to remove food particles can prevent the wound from becoming aggravated, and dental wax can be used to avoid further irritation. Clove oil can also be applied to the gums to numb the area around the chipped or broken tooth.

North Pointe Dental has several recommendations for treating a tooth immediately after it breaks or chips. The first step is to rinse out the mouth with lukewarm saltwater. This will help remove food particles and kill bacteria, reducing the risk of a dental infection. If the injury is painful, ibuprofen can also be taken to address the issue.

Dr. Caitlin Stangel Batchelor of Caitlin Batchelor Dentistry explains that it may be possible to resolve the issue with fillings, bonding, or veneers. If you can find the piece of the tooth that chipped off, hold onto it, as your dentist might be able to reattach it. In the event that the wound is bleeding, you can apply light pressure with either gauze or a tea bag to help it clot more quickly. Using a cold pack on your cheek or lips can also alleviate pain if the tooth chip was caused by physical trauma to the facial area.