With the wide range of dental solutions available today, there's no need to panic if you chip a tooth. Your smile can be protected and repaired with a little help from your dentist, even when the damage is hard to look at. Here are some simple steps to follow if a tooth chips to ensure any cosmetic procedure is successful.

3 Steps to Take if You Chip One of Your Teeth

1. Rinse and Clean

The first action you take should be to rinse your mouth with warm water as soon as possible. This will help to clean the area and remove any debris. You should also use a cold compress to reduce swelling, particularly if the chip is severe or occurs near the gumline. If you're experiencing pain, take over-the-counter pain medication until you can see a professional.

2. Call a Dentist

If the chip is small, you may not need to do anything other than watch for signs of infection, as the damage may be purely cosmetic. However, if the break is large or has exposed nerve tissue, you'll need to see a dentist as soon as possible. They'll be able to determine the best course of action to repair the tooth.

3. Care for the Tooth

Leading up to the appointment, you'll need to protect your tooth from further damage. If the chip is in the front of your mouth, you can cover it with dental wax or a piece of sugar-free gum. This will help to keep it safe from further damage and will also make it less noticeable. If the chip is in the back of your mouth, avoid chewing on hard foods, as this could cause further damage.

If you or your child has chipped, cracked, or broken a tooth, reach out to Dr. Robert N. Petrtyl, DDS, of Cincinnati, OH. Thanks to his 30 years of experience, cutting-edge dental treatments, and state-of-the-art technology, his patients receive the best care available. From routine teeth cleaning to root canals, you'll enjoy high-quality care and compassionate attention from Dr. Petrtyl and his friendly staff. To see a full list of available dental practices, visit them online or call (513) 554-4657 to schedule an appointment.