Whether damaged during an accident, while playing sports, or after using your teeth as a tool to open a package or bottle, a chipped tooth requires immediate care. Although it may seem small, a chipped tooth allows food and bacteria to build up, increasing your risk of cavities, decay, and gum disease in the future. If you have recently chipped your tooth, use this guide to repair the tooth and prevent further issues that can affect your oral health.

Rinse

Your first step after chipping a tooth is to call the dentist to schedule an emergency appointment. Next, you should rinse your mouth out with a solution containing warm water and a small amount of table salt.

The water and salt solution will rid your mouth of any tooth fragments, food, and bacteria that may be lingering in your mouth.

Relieve Pain

In some cases, you may not feel any discomfort after chipping your tooth. However, some people do experience pain that can be problematic until you are able to see a dentist.

If you are experiencing pain, consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen. This is usually sufficient for reducing inflammation, swelling of the gum tissue, and discomfort.

Applying an ice pack to the side of your jaw where the injury occurred can also relieve pain and swelling.

Protect

While you are waiting to see your dentist, you should protect your mouth and the damaged tooth.

After the tooth is chipped, the edges will be jagged and sharp. These edges can scratch and cut your gum tissue and inside of your mouth if they are not covered.

Use a piece of paraffin wax or a piece of sugar-free chewing gum to cover the chipped, jagged tooth. This will protect your mouth until you are able to see your dentist.

Repair

Your dentist will most likely recommend bonding to repair the damaged tooth. During this treatment, a small composite resin material is applied to the damaged area of the tooth.

The resin material will be matched to the color of your existing teeth, which ensures your chipped tooth can be repaired in a manner that appears natural.

Tooth bonding is not a permanent solution, but you can expect this method of tooth restoration to last around 10 years. If the damage is more severe, your dentist may suggest removing the tooth completely and placing dental implants. Implant dentistry offers an effective fix that will stand the test of time. 

A chipped tooth may not be a life-threatening emergency, but it can quickly become a cause for concern. With this guide and your dentist's help, you will be able to repair the damaged tooth in a simple, stress-free, and painless manner.