A chipped tooth is a common dental emergency. Although this type of injury does not usually require same-day treatment, it’s important to seek professional help within a few days of the accident. But what should a person do while waiting for an appointment? Can the damage worsen? Keep reading to find out what steps to take to avoid additional harm while waiting to see an emergency dentist.
What Can Cause a Chipped Tooth?
Accidental falls are not the only ways a tooth can become chipped. Other likely culprits include:
- Biting down on a hard piece of food
- Serious cavities that weaken teeth
- Teeth grinding/clenching (bruxism)
- Sports-related injuries
The reason for the chipped tooth is often not the issue but instead, its severity makes a difference in how it is treated.
Most situations do not require a patient to see an emergency dentist right away; however, if pain exists, the sooner professional treatment is administered, the better the chances of avoiding future damage.
What Should You Do While Waiting for an Appointment?
While waiting to see a dentist for a chipped tooth, there are a few steps a person must take to ensure no additional harm occurs before the appointment. These include:
- Rinsing out the mouth to flush away any debris or blood
- Using gauze to stop any bleeding should the chip be significant or near the gumline
- Preserving the tooth, if possible, so that a dentist can look at the damage and determine if it can be bonded back into place.
- Using a cold compress to reduce any swelling or discomfort
- Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever
What Can a Dentist Do to Help?
When arriving for an appointment concerning a chipped tooth, the emergency dentist will likely start by taking digital images of the tooth in question. This will help to determine the severity of the damage and which type of treatment will work best.
Typically, a chipped tooth is fixed one of two ways – cosmetic bonding or veneers. If the chip or crack is severe enough, a custom dental crown may be required.
Otherwise, a minor chip, especially those toward the back of the mouth, can be treated with cosmetic bonding. The composite resin is applied to the tooth’s surface and shaped to cover the imperfection. Chips that are visible and exist toward the front of the mouth may require custom veneers to effectively hide the problem and improve one’s appearance.
While it’s natural to become concerned when chipped a tooth, it’s important to remember to stay calm. A trusted emergency dentist can provide the appropriate form of treatment that will fix the issue and ensure a damage-free smile.
About Grand Dental – Naperville
At Grand Dental – Naperville, chipped teeth can be fixed with safe and effective cosmetic and restorative solutions. Whether it is cosmetic bonding, veneers, or dental crowns, these treatment options make it possible for patients to get the care they need and be on their way to enjoying a more confident and beautiful smile. Visit our website or call us at (630) 576-9970 to learn how we can help.