What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth

Chipping a tooth can be an alarming experience, whether it happens while eating, during sports, or from an unexpected accident. While minor chips may seem like just a cosmetic issue, they can lead to more significant dental problems if left untreated. At Hathorne Family Dental in Danvers, Massachusetts, Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry, DMD, and our team are here to help you understand what steps to take if you chip your tooth and how we can restore your smile to its natural beauty. 

Understanding a Chipped Tooth

A chipped tooth occurs when a portion of the enamel breaks off due to trauma, pressure, or decay. The severity of a chip can range from minor cosmetic damage to deep fractures that affect the inner layers of the tooth. Depending on the size and location of the chip, it can cause discomfort, sensitivity, and, in some cases, difficulty chewing or speaking. 

Common Causes of a Chipped Tooth

Several factors can contribute to a chipped tooth, including: 

• Biting on Hard Objects – Ice, hard candies, unpopped popcorn kernels, or even pens can cause a tooth to crack. 

• Trauma or Injury – Sports injuries, car accidents, or falls can result in chipped or broken teeth. 

• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) – Habitual grinding can wear down the enamel, making teeth more vulnerable to fractures. 

• Tooth Decay – Weakened enamel due to cavities or untreated decay can make teeth more prone to chipping. 

• Temperature Extremes – Sudden exposure to extremely hot or cold foods can cause minor cracks that may lead to chipping. 

Immediate Steps to Take After Chipping a Tooth

Assess the Damage

Examine your tooth carefully in a mirror. If you experience pain or bleeding or notice a large break, the damage may be significant. 

Rinse Your Mouth

Gently rinse with warm water to remove debris and bacteria. If the area is bleeding, a saline solution (warm water with a pinch of salt) can help keep the wound clean. 

Save Any Broken Pieces

If possible, collect any fragments of the chipped tooth and store them in a clean container with milk or saliva. In some cases, your dentist may be able to bond the pieces back together. 

Control Any Bleeding

Apply gentle pressure with a piece of clean gauze or a damp tea bag to stop any bleeding. This should subside within a few minutes. 

Reduce Swelling and Pain

• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected tooth to minimize swelling and discomfort. 

• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen if needed. 

• Avoid eating hard, crunchy, or very hot/cold foods that may cause sensitivity. 

Protect the Tooth Until You See a Dentist

• If the chip has left a sharp edge, you can apply dental wax or sugar-free chewing gum to prevent cuts to your tongue or cheeks. 

• Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth to prevent further damage. 

Schedule an Appointment with Your Dentist

Even if the chip seems minor, it’s essential to have it evaluated by a professional. Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry, DMD, at Hathorne Family Dental, can assess the damage and recommend the best treatment to restore your tooth. 

Treatment Options for a Chipped Tooth

The appropriate treatment depends on the extent of the damage. Here are some common solutions: 

Dental Bonding (For Minor Chips)

• Ideal for small chips, especially on the front teeth. 

• Tooth-colored composite resin is applied and shaped to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth. 

• Quick and painless, usually completed in one visit. 

Dental Veneers (For Visible Front Teeth)

• Thin porcelain shells that cover the front surface of the tooth. 

• Recommended for moderate chips or if you desire a long-lasting cosmetic enhancement. 

• Requires minimal tooth preparation and offers a durable, natural look. 

Dental Crowns (For Larger Chips or Fractured Teeth)

• A custom-made cap that covers the damaged tooth. 

• Protects and restores function for significantly chipped or weakened teeth. 

• Made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal for strength and aesthetics. 

Dental Fillings (For Back Teeth)

• If a molar or premolar is chipped, a tooth-colored filling can repair the damage. 

• Restores chewing function while maintaining a natural appearance. 

Root Canal Therapy (For Severe Chips Exposing the Nerve)

• If the chip reaches the pulp (inner tissue containing nerves and blood vessels), it can cause pain and infection. 

• A root canal removes the damaged pulp, disinfects the tooth, and seals it with a filling or crown. 

Tooth Extraction (As a Last Resort)

• If the tooth is severely damaged and cannot be restored, extraction may be necessary. 

• Options such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures can replace the missing tooth. 

Preventing a Chipped Tooth in the Future

While accidents happen, there are ways to reduce your risk of chipping a tooth: 

Avoid Biting Hard Objects

• Be mindful of chewing on ice, hard candies, and non-food items. 

Wear a Mouthguard for Sports

• If you participate in contact sports like football, basketball, or hockey, a custom-fitted mouthguard can protect your teeth from injury. 

Address Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

• If you grind your teeth at night, consider a nightguard to prevent wear and damage. 

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

• Brush twice a day and floss daily to keep your enamel strong and prevent decay. 

• Visit Hathorne Family Dental for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. 

Be Cautious with Temperature Extremes

• Avoid consuming extremely hot and cold foods back-to-back, as this can cause small fractures in the enamel. 

Eat a Tooth-Healthy Diet

• Consume calcium-rich foods (milk, cheese, leafy greens) to strengthen enamel. 

• Avoid excessive sugary or acidic foods that weaken teeth over time. 

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

Some chips are minor, but others require immediate attention. Call us right away if you experience: 

• Severe pain that does not subside with pain relievers. 

• Sharp edges that are cutting your tongue or cheeks. 

• Exposed nerves causing extreme sensitivity. 

• Swelling or signs of infection, such as pus, fever, or a foul taste in your mouth. 

At Hathorne Family Dental, we prioritize emergency dental care and will do our best to accommodate you as soon as possible. 

Restore Your Smile at Hathorne Family Dental

Chipping a tooth can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. Dr. Keerthy Chilakamarry, DMD, and our compassionate team at Hathorne Family Dental in Danvers, Massachusetts, are here to provide expert care to restore your tooth and your confidence. 

If you’ve chipped a tooth, don’t wait—contact us today to schedule an appointment! 

Contact Hathorne Family Dental today to schedule your appointment.