Have you chipped your tooth? It may not cause you any pain now, but if the chip is big enough to expose the nerves, you can experience increased sensitivity and root damage if you don’t see your dentist soon. So it’s important to book an appointment right away so your dentist can restore the shape of your tooth and prevent any further damage. To find out what you should do between now and your appointment and what treatment options are available, read on.
What to Do?
First things first, call your dentist to schedule an immediate appointment. Then gently rinse your mouth with lukewarm water to remove any fine particles. If you’re experiencing any pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever to reduce the soreness in the area. And if you experience any bleeding, use a piece of tissue or gauze to apply pressure to the area.
When eating, only consume soft foods and use the other side of your mouth to chew until you visit your dentist. It’s also recommended to avoid any substances that are particularly hot or cold that could cause further pain and irritation.
Treatment Options for Small Chips
If the chip is relatively small, your dentist can simply smooth over the area to match your other teeth and polish the tooth. This will take minimal time and cost, and no additional treatment will be needed once you leave the office.
Treatment Options for Large Chips
If there is major damage to your tooth surface, your dentist will likely recommend a filling or a crown to be placed over the tooth. This will help to restore its appearance and function and prevent any bacteria from getting inside. Fillings are a simple procedure that applies an adhesive material to the tooth followed by a tooth-coloured resin to match the filling to the rest of your tooth. If the chip has exposed the nerve, you may need a root canal to fix the problem and then a crown to cap the area.
What to Do After?
After your chipped tooth has been repaired by your dentist, it’s important to take good care of it to prevent any further damage. This includes maintaining your regular oral routine of brushing twice daily and flossing, in addition to visiting your dentist as directed so they can ensure that the crown or filling has maintained structural strength and colour.
If you’ve experienced a chipped tooth, don’t ignore it. Make sure to come visit us at Dentistry at the Crossing today! We’ll treat and restore your tooth back to its original shape and colour. Contact us today to talk to one of our professionals or to book an emergency appointment!