{"id":66,"date":"2022-08-02T21:59:00","date_gmt":"2022-08-02T21:59:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.templechoicedental.com\/blog\/?p=66"},"modified":"2022-09-23T22:01:46","modified_gmt":"2022-09-23T22:01:46","slug":"steps-for-addressing-a-chipped-tooth","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.templechoicedental.com\/blog\/2022\/08\/02\/steps-for-addressing-a-chipped-tooth\/","title":{"rendered":"Steps for Addressing a Chipped Tooth"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"Picture<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

It can happen when you least expect it; you\u2019re comfortably plopped on the couch with a big bowl of popcorn resting in your lap. As you\u2019re enjoying your favorite snack, you suddenly feel a sharp pain in your mouth\u2014a pesky, un-popped kernel has chipped one of your teeth! When this happens, seeking treatment from your emergency dentist should be your top priority. Here\u2019s more from your dentist<\/a> about what to do when you suffer a chipped tooth along with some treatments used to address the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Steps for Addressing a Chipped Tooth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here are some preliminary steps you can follow upon chipping a tooth:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

  1. Contact Your Dentist Immediately<\/strong> \u2013 Your dentist will be able to determine when you need to be seen; even if you aren\u2019t experiencing pain or discomfort, the tooth needs to be addressed quickly. Chipped teeth have weakened enamel and are much more vulnerable to decay, and serious infections can develop if left untreated.<\/li>
  2. Rinse Out Your Mouth<\/strong> \u2013 If you can, immediately rinse out your mouth with warm water to help keep the affected area clean and clear of any blood, dirt, or other debris. If the part of your tooth that chipped off is still in your mouth, this can help to prevent you from accidentally swallowing or biting it.<\/li>
  3. Stop the Bleeding<\/strong> \u2013 If there is any bleeding, you\u2019ll need to apply pressure to the area with gauze or a clean towel. This will help to stop the bleeding and prevent you from swallowing excess blood! Do not scrub the affected area or irritate It further; steady pressure with minimal movement is all you need.<\/li>
  4. Preserve the Tooth<\/strong> \u2013 If your tooth has separated from your mouth, locate it as quickly as possible to increase the likelihood of it being saved and replaced. If there are pieces of your tooth that need to be recovered, gather and store them in a protective container and bring them to your appointment.<\/li>
  5. Manage the Pain<\/strong> \u2013 Applying a cold compress to the injured area can help to alleviate pain and reduce swelling. The cold also constricts your blood vessels and slows the blood flow to that part of the mouth, which can also help to stop any bleeding. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs can help, too.<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Treatment Options for Broken or Chipped Teeth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    There are several ways in which a dentist can choose to treat a chipped or broken tooth, depending on the severity of the damage. Some options include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n