When you or your child experiences dental trauma that results in a broken or chipped tooth, it’s natural to feel anxious or panicked. After taking a deep breath to collect yourself, follow the steps outlined below to ensure you restore your smile promptly and efficiently. 

4 Steps to Follow When You Have a Broken or Chipped Tooth

1. Rinse Your Mouth

Immediately following the incident that chips your tooth, take a moment to thoroughly rinse your mouth with warm water. If bleeding occurs, apply pressure with gauze, a clean washcloth or paper towels. Should swelling occur at the point of trauma, apply an ice pack or cold compress. 

2. Call Your Dentist Right Away

Once you’ve cleaned your mouth and applied pressure, call a dental practice that offers emergency dental care. Inform the dentist of your situation, how the chipped tooth occurred, and whether you’re in pain and experiencing excessive bleeding and swelling. The sooner you can get an appointment to see a dental professional, the better. 

3. Collect the Broken Tooth

After connecting with your dentist, take a moment to look for the remnants of your broken or chipped tooth. If you locate pieces, collect them, wrap them in wet gauze, so they stay damp and bring the contents with you to your appointment. 

4. Avoid Hot & Cold Foods

Leading up to your dental exam, avoid outside forces that can exacerbate your condition, and cause a toothache. This means steering clear of crunchy foods or extremely hot and cold items like ice cream, hot coffee, or tea. 

Has your child recently sustained a mouth injury that has led to a chipped tooth? If so, Brandi Prather, DMD, PSC is the right dental practice for you. As a friendly, dedicated pediatric dentist conveniently located in the heart of Somerset, KY, this clinic understands the urgency necessary to treat dental trauma in anxious little ones. To schedule an immediate appointment at this welcoming, yet modern dental office, call today at 606) 679-5437. For more information on the services provided and their commitment to putting even the most nervous young patients at ease, visit their Facebook page.