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Chipping a tooth may occur after a fall or if you bite into something that’s especially hard. Whatever the case, it’s important to take the proper steps at home and seek the attention of a dentist promptly. Here’s what you should know if your tooth is chipped.

Do:

Rinse with lukewarm water.

Any extreme temperature could prove uncomfortable or even painful to the affected area, so it’s important to rinse with lukewarm water. This will help wash out contaminants and bleeding, along with the portion of your tooth that chipped off.

Try to halt the bleeding.

dentistBleeding could be minimal and easy to dab away with some light pressure, but heavier blood needs some more attention. Avoid scrubbing the spot; use gentle pressure instead and try not to move your hand.

If the bleeding seems more severe than it should be, contact a medical professional promptly.

Don’t:

Pull out a loose tooth.

While dentists advise patients to save the tooth if it falls out entirely so that they can try to replace it, it’s not a good idea to remove a tooth that feels loose or like it’s about to fall out. It could result in heavy bleeding, and may even pose a threat of infection if the area becomes disturbed.

Try to chew with the tooth.

If the tooth remained intact and the pain subsides, you might be tempted to eat as you normally would. But it’s still smart to have a professional assess it before you resume eating harder foods again. Stick with soft foods, such as pasta and eggs, and avoid chewing with the affected tooth until you know it’s safe.

 

 

Are you concerned about a chipped tooth? Have Dr. Thomas Park DDS in Seymour, CT, take a look. Proudly serving patients throughout New Haven County, the dentist offers a variety of services, including general dentistry, teeth whitening, and oral surgery. Visit their website for information or call (203) 888-9947 to schedule an appointment.

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