Dental emergencies can not only negatively impact the appearance of your smile but put your oral health at risk. Unfortunately, if you experience an unexpected dental event, it can be so shocking that you are at a loss for what to do next. One minute you are playing football in the yard with your children, and the next moment you have a chipped tooth! The key is to remain calm and be aware of what to do next. Read on to learn six easy steps to help you restore your smile after you’ve chipped your tooth.
Step 1: Call Your Dentist Immediately
No matter what your dental emergency entails, the first step is to call your dentist as soon as it is safe to do so. They can provide immediate guidance for your situation over the phone and give personalized first-aid advice to use until you can reach their office. Then they can schedule your emergency appointment accordingly.
Step 2: Clean Your Mouth
It’s important to keep your mouth clean and free from bacteria so be sure to rinse it out thoroughly and gently with warm water. This will also help wash out any loose broken shards of your tooth before you accidentally swallow or bite down on them.
Step 3: Collect the Pieces of Your Tooth
After you have tended to your mouth, take the time to gather any broken-off pieces of your tooth that you can see. Store them safely in a clean container and bring them with you to your appointment. There is always a possibility that your dentist may be able to recement the piece of enamel back into place.
Step 4: Stop Any Bleeding
If the gap in your mouth is bleeding, be sure to place pressure on it right away. Keep a tissue or small clean towel over the area and hold it gently in place with minimal movement. If the bleeding seems severe or has been continuous for over 10-15 minutes, you should go directly to your local ER.
Step 5: Give Your Mouth Relief
As you wait for your emergency dental appointment, try to make yourself as comfortable as possible. Place a cold compress or an ice pack on the injured area at 10-minute intervals. This will help reduce swelling and numb any pain. Additionally, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever (such as ibuprofen or aspirin) to ease inflammation and ease discomfort.
Step 6: See Your Dentist As Soon As Possible
Even if the situation does not seem dire, you should visit your dentist about a chipped tooth right away. Damaged enamel can leave your tooth weakened and vulnerable to serious infections. Fortunately, there are several treatments available that can help restore your smile. With minor damage, your dentist may be able to fill in the chip or recement the broken piece into place with dental bonding. If your tooth is chipped in a very visible area of the mouth, such as a front tooth, veneers offer the most natural and reliable results. If your remaining pearly white is severely damaged, your dentist may recommend a custom dental crown to protect the tooth and rebuild its appearance.
If your smile has been affected by a dental emergency like a chipped tooth, it is not a lost cause. By following these steps and seeking help from your dentist, your pearly white can be restored as soon as possible.
About the Practice
MJM Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is eager to help you with any unexpected dental event through the expertise of its two dentists. With a focus on providing high-quality dentistry, they offer a wide range of services, including emergency care. They are available for same-day appointments, so they can examine and treat your dental issue as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (703) 934-5540.
