Accidents happen. When it comes to your teeth, accidents can be startling, especially if a tooth has been harmed as a result. In this blog post we’ll let you know what to do if you chip or break a tooth.
Think Fast</b
If you break or chip a tooth, you’ll want to act quickly in order to maintain the best chance of saving the tooth. Whether it’s from grinding, decay, or a blow to the face, your tooth enamel can break, leaving a damaged tooth and, sometimes, an exposed root. If it happens to you, here are a few things you can do in the immediate aftermath.
- Rinse. Swish warm, salty water in your mouth. This will clean the area and work to prevent any infection.
- Tend to the bleeding and pain. You’ll likely have some pain associated with the break, and possibly some blood. Gauze can be used to stop the blood flow, and an ice pack and over-the-counter pain medication can help with the pain.
- Smooth it out. If you have temporary dental cement, it can be used to cover the area until you’re able to get to the dentist. If you don’t have dental cement or wax on hand, you can try using sugar-free gum to protect the area and stop any jagged parts from cutting up your cheek and tongue.
Head to the Dentist’s Office
Depending on the severity of the chip or break, you may be able to wait a few days to get to the dentist, but it’s important that you do head into the office soon after the incident, to minimize the chance of further damage. Your dentist will be able to fix the break, but the solution will depend on your unique situation. Fillings, bondings, crowns, veneers, and root canal are all options available to your dentist.
Broken Tooth? Contact Us!
At Simply Smile Family Dentistry we’re here to help if dental emergency strikes. Contact us and we’ll fit you in for a fix as soon as possible.
