Chipped Teeth – What You Can Do Before You See the Dentist

A broken or chipped tooth is one of the most common dental injuries. It can be caused by impact, large cavities, or biting into a hard substance. If a chip is minor and only affects your tooth enamel, it may not cause any pain. When it is large enough to expose the nerves inside the tooth’s inner pulp, you may experience uncomfortable sensitivity to hot or cold beverages and pain when you are chewing food. A broken cusp is an injury to the pointed chewing surfaces of your back teeth. It is rarely painful and usually does not affect the tooth’s pulp, but a crown or onlay is often recommended for preventing further damage.

How Do I Care for a Chipped Tooth at Home? 



First, rinse your mouth with warm, salted water. If the area is bleeding, apply pressure with a piece of clean gauze. Swelling can be reduced with a cold compress. Whenever possible, make an appointment with your dentist on the same day. If you can’t, cover the chipped area with dental cement to protect the tooth until you can obtain professional treatment from an affordable dentist.

Treatment of Chipped Teeth by Injury Size



Small chips may not need extensive treatment. Your dentist may be able to simply smooth and polish the area to restore an acceptable shape and surface texture. If there is more extensive damage, he or she may place a crown, cap, or filling to restore normal appearance and function to the chipped tooth, and protect it from infection. Large or severe injuries may require root canal treatment.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Peoria, call Maple Shade Dental Group today or make an appointment.