If you chip a tooth, you might not be sure what to do. The most important step is to call your dentist immediately. Even if the chip is on one of your back teeth, the dentist will need to look at it to determine how to repair it. Here’s what you can do for your chipped tooth on your own, as well as treatments your dentist might recommend.

A Guide to Chipped Teeth

What to Do Immediately

After you chip a tooth, call your dentist right away to make an appointment. While you wait to see them, you can place dental wax or sugar-free gum over the chip if it’s sharp against your tongue or cheek. If you’re in pain, ask your dentist what pain relief option to use.

You can also apply an ice pack if you’re experiencing swelling. Very hot or very cold foods can cause sensitivity, so try to avoid them. In addition, you should eat soft foods and avoid chewing using your damaged tooth. 

Possible Solutions a Dentist Will Use

Your dentist will need to examine your tooth to determine what action will need to be taken, if any. In some circumstances, they might simply need to smooth out the tooth to get rid of any sharp parts. However, if the damage is more serious, you might need more extensive dental work.

One of the most common solutions is to repair your chipped tooth using a filling. These are commonplace and can help if the enamel is damaged. If the chip is on a visible part of your tooth but not too deep, a dentist might use bonding instead. In this procedure, a tooth-colored material called resin is bonded to the tooth.

If the damage is near the front of your mouth and you don’t like how it looks, your dentist might suggest covering it with a veneer. These are thin porcelain or composite shells that are placed over the teeth to give them a more natural appearance. A thin layer of enamel is removed from your teeth, and the veneer is made at a lab. Then it’s placed over your tooth using dental cement. 

When damage is more severe, a crown might be necessary to protect the rest of your tooth from further damage. Getting a crown requires two visits to the dentist. The first will prepare your tooth and take impressions so a crown can be made at a lab. At the next appointment, the crown will be cemented to your tooth. Crowns are attractive and are made to match the color of your teeth, so they’re not very noticeable.

If you’ve chipped a tooth, call Genrich Family Dentistry in Lincoln, NE, right away. They’ve been providing dental care to the community for over 30 years. They provide all of the procedures that might be necessary, including fillings, veneers, crowns, and more! Visit their website or call (402) 466-2211 to schedule an appointment.