It’s only natural to want to protect your teeth so that they stay healthy for a long time, but sudden accidents can cause damage. Chewing hard foods, falling, and getting injured while playing sports can all cause a chipped tooth. If this ever happens to you, it is important to know what steps to take.

The father-son team at Tohill Dentistry, located in Somerset, KT, have you covered. Below, they offer some important information on what to do after chipping a tooth:

Make a Dental Appointment

The first thing you should do if you have a chipped tooth is call your dentist. There is no method to completely treat your chipped tooth at home. You can only try to keep it clean and lessen tooth pain. Not seeing a professional could result in further pain and discomfort due to the potential for exposed nerves.

At your appointment, the dentist will determine the extent of the damage and treat it accordingly. Less severe cases only require smoothing and polishing while a severe chipped tooth may need a root canal and a crown.

Rinse Your Mouth

Once you have secured a dental appointment, you will need to rinse your mouth out with warm salt water. Salt, a natural disinfectant, will help get rid of bacteria in your mouth and around the affected area. This also calms any discomfort you may have.

Cover the Tooth

If you have to wait to see your dentist, cover the tooth with some dental cement from the drugstore. The cement offers protection for your tooth and prevents food debris from getting lodged inside.

If you chip your tooth and need assistance, contact Tohill Dentistry for your dental care needs. They have been serving the Somerset, KY, area for 38 years and are experienced in various dental services such as crowns, root canals, fillings, and extractions. To schedule your consultation, visit their website or give them a call at (606) 679-4450.