Breaking or chipping a tooth is one of the dental emergencies that will come as an absolute surprise to you. It may be shocking when one bites into something hard, falls and slips, or when an old restoration collapses. In addition to the original shock, there is usually apprehension, giddiness, and anxiety about what to do next. Knowing what to do and why it is important to act is essential to safeguard your future dental condition.
Why a Broken or Chipped Tooth Is a Major Issue?
Having a broken tooth exposes the inner layers, and they are exposed to infections, decay, and additional breakage.
It is essential to have an emergency dentist who can evaluate the patient as quickly as possible to avoid complications.
The earlier the treatment is commenced, the more likely you are to retain the natural tooth and avoid infection or other more radical measures that may occur in the future.
Causes of a Broken or Chipped Tooth
A tooth does not normally break in vain. Knowing the causes will enable you to avoid problems in the future and know what to expect in the treatment.
- Trauma or Injury
The most typical causes of chipped/broken teeth include accidents like falls, sports injuries or an impromptu blow on the face. These accidents may exert a strong force on the tooth directly, causing it to be damaged instantly.
- Filling Previous Weakness
The structure of the tooth may be weakened by large or old fillings in the long run. The natural tooth structure that surrounds the filling gets fragile when it is thin; thus, it is easy to break.
- Chewing Hard Foods
A tooth may chip when one bites down on something hard, such as nuts, ice, hard candies, or even something hidden in food, like a bone. Healthy teeth may break under great stress, and in case the enamel is already worn, the chances are high of breaking it.
- Tooth Decay
Cavities undermine the tooth enamel and dentin, rendering the tooth weak. As decay progresses, the tooth structure becomes incapable of supporting normal chewing forces, leading to abrupt breakage.
What to Do Immediately After a Tooth Break
A quick response to a tooth that breaks or chips in a sudden position can result in the saving of the tooth and pain alleviation. Here is what you should do:
- Rinse Your Mouth Gently
Wet it with warm water to clean up the place and remove any pieces. Do not put very hot or cool water in case the tooth is sensitive.
- Apply Pressure for Bleeding
In case the break produces bleeding, then apply a clean piece of gauze and apply pressure until it is stopped.
- Save Any Tooth Fragments
Provided that you can, gather the pieces of it and put them into a clean container with a little milk or a little saline solution. They can be used during treatment by an emergency dentist.
- Manage Pain and Swelling
Use an ice pack on the exterior of your cheek in order to lessen swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers would help, but do not apply aspirin to the gum directly – it will produce burns.
- Do not use the tooth that is damaged
Then, until the broken tooth is treated, do not bite, chew, or put any pressure on it. This eliminates additional harm and causes less pain.
- Make an Emergency Appointment
Call an emergency dentist. The risk of infection, exposure of nerves, and loss of teeth are also more likely due to delaying treatment.
What will an emergency dentist do for a broken or chipped tooth?
- Tooth Filling in Minor Chips
Tooth filling is a relatively simple and effective way to remove small chips or fractures. The dentist employs a composite substance of the colour of teeth to restructure, reinstate functionality, and improve the look.
- Dental Bonding
Just like a filling, bonding is a procedure that involves the use of a resin material, which combines with the tooth. This suits well for cosmetic chips on the front teeth.
- Dental Crown
In case a big part of the tooth is broken, a crown might be required to safeguard the remaining part. The whole tooth is covered with a crown, which strengthens the tooth and does not allow it to become even weaker.
- Root Canal Treatment
A root canal is required when the pulp is exposed or damaged. This process pulls out the diseased or burnt nerve and closes the tooth. It is then normally topped with a crown to enhance protection.
Ending Note
A chipped or broken tooth cannot be neglected. Although the damage may appear small and the pain may be minimal, with proper treatment in time, much can be avoided. Whether it is dealing with discomfort at home or directing to professional care, the right steps will guarantee the best possible outcome.
Wait, not before a broken tooth can do even more harm. Call an emergency dentist and receive the necessary treatment, be it a tooth filling or a more complex intervention, to repair your oral health and confidence.
