Accidents happen, and one of the most common dental mishaps is chipping a tooth. Whether it’s from biting down on a hard object or a fall, a chipped tooth can be painful and can also affect the appearance of your smile. While it may be tempting to ignore a small chip, it’s important to address it as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential complications. 

In this article, we will discuss the steps you should take after chipping a tooth, from evaluating the severity of the chip to seeking professional dental treatment. We will also cover some temporary measures you can take to alleviate pain and protect the damaged tooth until you can see your Calgary dentist. With proper care and prompt action, you can ensure that your chipped tooth is treated effectively and your smile is restored to its natural beauty. So, if you’ve recently chipped your tooth or are looking for guidance on how to handle such a situation in the future, keep reading to discover what to do.

If you chipped your tooth, it’s important to take prompt action to minimize further damage and prevent potential complications. Here are steps to follow:

1. Rinse Your Mouth: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. This helps remove any debris or blood from the affected area.
2. Save the Chip (if possible): If you can locate the chipped piece of your tooth, save it. In some cases, a dentist may be able to reattach the chip, depending on the size and condition.
3. Apply Pressure (if bleeding): If there is bleeding from the chipped area, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth to stop the bleeding.
4. Use Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your mouth near the chipped tooth. This can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
5. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: If you experience pain, you may take over-the-counter pain relievers, following the recommended dosage on the packaging.
6. Cover Sharp Edges: If the chipped tooth has sharp edges, you can cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum to prevent irritation to your cheeks, tongue, or lips.
7. Avoid Certain Foods: Avoid consuming hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could further damage the chipped tooth or cause discomfort.
8. Schedule an Emergency Dental Appointment: Contact your Calgary dentist as soon as possible to schedule an emergency appointment. Provide details about the chipped tooth and any symptoms you may be experiencing.
9. Follow Dentist’s Recommendations: Follow the dentist’s advice and recommendations for treatment. Depending on the severity of the chip, treatment options may include dental bonding, a dental crown, or other restorative procedures.
10. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Continue with your regular oral hygiene routine, being careful around the chipped tooth. Brush gently, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

It’s crucial to seek professional dental care promptly after chipping a tooth, even if the chip seems small. Ignoring a chipped tooth could lead to further damage, increased pain, and potential complications such as infection.

Remember that the steps above are general guidelines, and your SW Calgary dentist at Braeside Dental Centre will provide personalized advice based on the specific circumstances of your chipped tooth. Our dentists have the expertise to assess the extent of the damage and recommend the most appropriate course of action for your situation. Call us today to book an appointment.