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A chipped tooth may not always cause pain, but it can damage your smile and jeopardize the structure and integrity of the tooth itself, leading to an unexpected trip to the dentist. For these reasons, it’s crucial to take action as soon as you can. Below are a few important steps to address the issue safely and effectively.

What to Do After Chipping a Tooth

1. Rinse With Saltwater

Saltwater is a natural disinfectant that helps kill bacteria and relieve pain. After chipping a tooth, rinse your mouth thoroughly with a solution of one teaspoon of salt dissolved in one cup of warm water. If you can't get to the dentist right away, rinse with this solution after all meals and snacks to keep your mouth clean and bacteria-free.

2. Apply Gauze & Ice

dentistChipped teeth sometimes bleed. In these situations, apply gauze directly to the tooth using gentle pressure. Hold it there for 10 minutes or until the bleeding subsides. Change the gauze when it gets too saturated. To prevent swelling and reduce tooth pain, apply an ice pack to the outside of the mouth over the area where the chipped tooth is located.

3. See a Dentist

Visit a dentist as soon as possible after the incident. The exact treatment will depend on the nature of the chip. If it's a tiny one, the dentist will smooth out the imperfection and polish the area. Larger ones may need to be bonded. This involves filling the tooth with a composite resin. If the chip has taken out a major portion of the tooth, a filling or crown will often be needed.

 

Don't wait to seek dental care after chipping a tooth. Pain levels can worsen, eating can become uncomfortable, and an already-weakened tooth could break down further. When you need a dentist, contact John P. Belbas, DDS. For over 30 years, Dr. Belbas has been offering general and cosmetic dentistry services to Livingston County, NY, residents. He treats patients of all ages and is committed to providing a pain- and stress-free experience in a comfortable setting. Call (585) 346-5220 to schedule an appointment today, or visit his website to learn more about his services.

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