A chipped tooth can be alarming, especially if it happens suddenly from eating, playing sports, or suffering a fall. It can certainly pose aesthetic concerns, but is it a dental emergency?
Not every chipped tooth is a true dental emergency. However, some situations do require prompt care to prevent pain, infection, or further damage.
Read on as Dr. David Blaustein and the Chelsea Dental Aesthetics team in New York City explain how to tell the difference and what to do next.
Seek urgent dental care if you notice any of the following:
If your tooth is severely chipped or partially knocked out, keep it moist. You can place it in your cheek, store it in milk, or use a tooth-preservation kit if available. Putting it in water can damage the tooth’s root cells and reduce the chance of saving it.
Seek dental care immediately. The sooner the tooth is treated, the better the chance it has of being repaired or reattached.
Tiny chips or rough edges that don’t cause pain may not require immediate emergency treatment, but don’t ignore them.
Schedule a dental visit as soon as possible to protect the tooth and restore its natural shape. Even minor damage can worsen over time, leaving the tooth more vulnerable to decay. Not to mention, a chip can affect the appearance of your smile.
You can reduce your risk of chipping a tooth by wearing a mouthguard when playing high-risk sports and never using your teeth as a tool. However, accidents still happen, so familiarize yourself with the basic steps for caring for a chipped tooth:
If you experience any pain or swelling, apply a cold compress, then call us at 917-200-0219 to determine the best next step.
With chipped teeth, Dr. Blaustein has three goals: to restore the function of your teeth, restore the appearance of your smile, and protect your long-term oral health.
Treatment depends on the severity and location of the chip. Common options include:
If a tooth can’t be saved, our team offers replacement options, including implants, bridges, or partial dentures.
Dr. Blausten can also identify strategies to prevent future chips. Bruxism (teeth grinding) contributes to chipped teeth, which have increased 63% since the pandemic. If you have bruxism, Dr. Blaustein may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth.
If you’re unsure whether a chipped tooth is an emergency, it’s always better to ask. Prompt evaluation can often prevent more complex (and costly) treatment later. Contact our office to get the care you need fast.
