Chipping or breaking a tooth can be a sudden and distressing experience. Whether it’s caused by an accident, biting down on something hard, or other reasons, knowing the right steps to take and when to see a professional dentist in Calgary can make a significant difference in managing the situation effectively.
Understanding Chipped Tooth
A chipped tooth occurs when a small part of the tooth’s hard surface (enamel) breaks off. This can happen if you bite something hard, have an accident, or grind your teeth. It might not hurt right away, but it could start to feel uncomfortable or sensitive if you don’t get it fixed.
The damage to a chipped tooth can range from a small edge breaking off to more serious harm that affects the tooth’s shape. It’s crucial to see an emergency dentist quickly to avoid problems and fix the tooth’s look and function.
Here are some types of chipped teeth:
- Cracked tooth: This is a tiny crack that starts on the outside of the tooth and goes all the way to the root.
- Fractured tooth: A portion of the tooth breaks off, but the root remains intact.
- Avulsed tooth: The tooth is entirely dislodged.
- Split tooth: The tooth is vertically divided into two sections.
Immediate Steps to Take
1. Assess the Damage
Check for broken or chipped teeth, bleeding, or swelling. Feel for loose or missing parts. Use a small mirror if available; otherwise, use your tongue to examine the area.
2. Rinse Your Mouth
Rinse your mouth with warm water. Hot or cold water might hurt. Rinsing helps clean the area. If you’re bleeding, press a clean cloth or gauze on it to stop the bleeding.
3. Protect the Tooth
If you break a piece of your tooth, save it by rinsing it with water and placing it in a container with milk or saltwater to keep it safe until you can see a dentist.
4. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Take painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen if you have pain. Follow the amount shown on the bottle. Don’t put aspirin directly on your gum or tooth because it can cause more pain.
5. Apply a Cold Compress
To help with swelling and pain, put a cold compress on the outside of your mouth near where it hurts. Wrap ice or a cold pack in a clean cloth. Keep it there for about 15 minutes, then take breaks before using it again.
Injuries Needing Treatment
1. Tooth Fractures
Fractured teeth can be different. Small cracks might just need a cosmetic fix, while bigger ones may require crowns or root canals.
2. Enamel Chips
Small chips in your tooth enamel can be repaired with bonding or other cosmetic treatments. Fixing these chips is important to prevent further damage and keep your teeth healthy.
3. Root Damage
Sometimes, if there is an extension to the root, a root canal would be performed to remove damaged tissue and restore the tooth. This procedure helps save the tooth and stop the infection from spreading.
4. Lost Dental Fillings
If a broken tooth shows an old filling, you might need a new one. Your dentist will check it and suggest the best fix.
Temporary Repair Kits
What Are Temporary Repair Kits?
Temporary repair kits allow you to quickly fix chips or breaks in teeth. Most of them include dental wax and bonding agents, with easy instructions provided. Such kits can be used temporarily until you can visit a dentist.
How to Use a Temporary Repair Kit
- Clean the tooth: Rinse the area with water.
- Prepare the kit: Follow the instructions included in the kit to mix the repair material.
- Apply the repair material: Apply to the damaged area of the material. Use the tool provided in the kit to shape and smooth.
- Avoid certain foods: Do not eat sticky or hard foods that can dislodge the temporary repair.
When to Use a Temporary Repair Kit
Use a temporary repair kit if you need to manage the damage until you can get professional treatment. These kits are helpful in preventing further damage and reducing discomfort.
Treatment Options for Chipped or Broken Teeth
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a treatment where a tooth-colored material is put on a damaged part of your tooth. It’s great for fixing small chips and cracks, making the tooth look and work better.
Dental Crowns
For more significant damage, a dental crown may be needed. Crowns cover the entire tooth and provide strength and protection, especially if the tooth has been weakened by a large break or extensive decay.
Root Canals
If the break extends into the tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be required to remove damaged tissue and seal the tooth. After a root canal, a crown is usually placed to restore the tooth’s structure.
Veneers
Porcelain or composite veneers fix chips and cracks on front teeth. They make your teeth look better and protect them.
Dental Implants
In cases where the tooth is severely damaged or lost, a dental implant may be recommended. Implants involve placing a titanium post in the jawbone and attaching a crown to restore function and aesthetics.
Conclusion
Chipping or breaking a tooth can be very upsetting. Acting quickly, getting help from a dentist, and taking steps to prevent it in the future are all important.
If you have a dental emergency, call Inglewood Family Dental right away. The team of emergency dentists in Calgary will quickly help fix your smile and keep your teeth healthy.
