Have you ever chipped a tooth?
It’s never a fun feeling, especially if you’re already having a bad day or nervous about how much damage you’ve done to your dental health.
Not brushing and flossing can cause minor chips to appear, not to mention it’s not something you want to promote overall.
After chipping a tooth, what do you do next? Well, that depends: are you at home, or are you at the dentist? We’ll look at what to do in both scenarios below.
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Assess the Severity of the Damage
The first step is to assess the severity of the damage. It is vital to see if the chip was minor or if significant damage could lead to a more severe concern. Possible signs that it is more serious include intense pain, bleeding, or swelling.
Intense Pain
Chipping a tooth can be a traumatic experience, especially if it causes intense pain. Depending on the chip’s size, the damage’s severity can vary dramatically. If the chip is small, the damage is usually limited to the front of the tooth, and the pain is manageable.
However, if the chip is deep and has gone into the tooth’s pulp, then the damage’s severity is much greater and the pain may be more intense. In this case, it is vital to call this emergency dentist as soon as possible to determine the extent of the damage and address the pain. The dentist may suggest, a root canal, or even tooth replacement, depending on the size and severity of the chip.
Bleeding
Chipping a tooth can cause varying levels of damage, depending on the harshness of the chip or crack and the location of the damaged tooth. If the chip is small and doesn’t penetrate beyond the enamel, pain, and sensitivity may be minimal.
But, if the chip creates a jagged edge or reveals the sensitive dentin or pulp, there may be significant discomfort and bleeding. In severe cases, the chip may affect the tooth’s supporting structures. These include gum tissue or jaw bone, requiring more intensive treatment.
It is vital to assess the severity of the damage and start by going to the dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Depending on the extent of the damage, a dentist may recommend a filling, crown, or other materials to protect the damaged tooth.
Swelling
Swollen gums can be one of the most uncomfortable and alarming symptoms of having chipped a tooth. The tissue surrounding the affected tooth can become infected if immediate care is not sought following the chipping. To assess the severity of the damage, look for signs of pain, difficulty eating, a foul taste in the mouth, and swelling of the gums.
If any of these symptoms are present, it is vital to seek immediate attention from your dentist. Sometimes, the tooth problems might be minor, requiring only a minimal dental procedure to address the chip.
In more severe cases, the chip could extend beyond the enamel or require a root canal. In situations where the damage is much more severe, an extraction may be necessary.
Repositioning the Tooth to Enhance Recovery
If you chip a tooth, it is essential to reposition the tooth in its normal position as soon as possible. To do this, you can hold it gently and attempt to fit the missing piece back into place. If this is not possible, you should take a pair of tweezers and place the tooth back in its natural alignment.
Once you have repositioned the tooth, bite to ensure it is securely in place. It is vital to avoid wiggling or playing with the tooth as it could further damage the affected area.
After repositioning the tooth, you should book an immediate visit with your dentist so that they can assess the extent of the damage. This is to provide treatment to minimize the damage and speed recovery.
Talk to Your Insurance Provider for Coverage
If you are chipping a tooth, one of the best ways is to speak to your insurance provider. Some insurance carriers may cover the cost of repairs. Ask them about your dental coverage.
It’s vital to check with your insurance company on a regular basis and be sure that all your insurance information is up to date. Depending on the amount of coverage, you may receive full or partial reimbursement for repairing your chipped tooth. It is also a great idea to record all your billing agreements and receipts for future reference.
Furthermore, you should ask your insurance provider if they cover preventive or diagnostic dental services such as x-rays or cleanings. Knowing your coverage in advance may save you from unexpected dental costs.
Home Remedies to Consider
Home remedies can help ease agony if you chip a tooth. Firstly, rinse your mouth with warm water to help clean any remaining debris. Also, you can apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.
Avoid using aspirin products as they can burn the gums. Furthermore, cover any sharp edges with wax paraffin or sugarless chewing gum to keep them from further damaging the mouth.
To reduce inflammation or infection, rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash, salt water, or a hydrogen peroxide mixture. Having a chipped tooth is a hassle, but some solutions can help reduce discomfort and restore your smile.
Preventing Future Tooth Damage
To prevent future tooth damage, maintain good oral hygiene habits, including brushing and flossing, and schedule regular dental check-ups. It can also help avoid foods and drinks that are hard on your teeth, such as sweets and carbonated beverages.
Lastly, if the chip is due to trauma or a sports injury, one must wear a mouthguard in the future to help prevent further damage.
Make an Appointment With Your Dentist After Chipping a Tooth
It is vital to take the necessary steps to ensure your tooth remains healthy after chipping a tooth. This includes seeing a dentist, keeping it as clean and safe as possible, and avoiding hard or chewy foods. Doing this will help keep your tooth strong and safe and ensure the best long-term solution for your chipped tooth.
Make an appointment with your dentist right away and start protecting your tooth!
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