Chipped teeth are common if you participate in sports or other activities that expose you to traumatic injuries. These dental injuries often occur when there is a forceful impact during a collision or dental problems like large cavities and lost fillings. Your teeth might also get chipped when you bite too hard into objects like hard candy, bones, and nuts, or due to poor nutrition. Grinding and clenching teeth is another major cause of chipped teeth.
Regardless of the cause, it would be best to see your dentist as soon as possible when you get a chipped tooth. The doctor will examine the tooth to determine the extent of the damage. There are other vital steps you need to take to prevent further damage to the tooth and make its restoration easier and more effective. Here are some of the most critical steps you should take when you chip a tooth.
Preserve the Chip
When your tooth gets chipped, find the chip and put it in a secure container. If it is dirty, rinse it with saltwater, preferably warm water, to remove any possible germs. Carry the piece with you to the doctor because a repair can be done. Please don’t wrap the tooth piece in fabric or tissue paper because it will dry out and become useless.
Rinse You Mouth
Use warm salt water to rinse your mouth immediately after the accident. This helps to remove bacteria and prevent infection. It is also good for reducing pain and bleeding that may have been caused by the injury. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, use a clean gauze to apply pressure to the gum.
Use Ice Pack and Painkillers
If the impact has caused swelling of the lips or jaw, apply an ice pack on the swollen area. The ice pack also helps to improve blood circulation in the affected area, thus improving healing. It also helps to prevent dark marks after the swelling is gone. For the pain, take over-the-counter painkillers.
Dental Wax
The sharp edges on your broken tooth can cause severe injuries on your lips, gum, and tongue if they are left open. Therefore, cover them with dental wax to prevent further injuries.
Soft Food
It isn’t easy to chew with a chipped tooth. Doing so might cause pain or lead to further chipping. So, it would be best if you stuck to drinks and soft food until the tooth has been repaired.
