A chipped or broken tooth can be a painful and stressful experience. Fortunately, with the right steps and professional care, the damage can be treated and your smile restored. In this blog post, we’ll provide expert advice on how to handle a chipped or broken tooth, covering immediate first aid, treatment options, and preventive measures.
Common Causes of a Chipped or Broken Tooth
Chipped or broken teeth can occur due to various reasons, such as:
- Biting down on hard foods or objects
- Trauma or injury to the mouth (e.g., sports accidents, falls)
- Teeth grinding or clenching
- Weakened tooth structure due to decay or large fillings
How Painful Can a Chipped or Broken Tooth Be?
The level of pain associated with a chipped or broken tooth can vary depending on the extent of the damage. Minor chips may cause little to no discomfort, but more severe breaks or cracks can expose the inner pulp and nerves. If left untreated, this can cause intense pain, sensitivity, and even infection.
How to Treat a Chipped or Broken Tooth at Home
Seeking professional dental care is essential if you’ve broken or chipped a tooth. But if you can’t get to a dentist right away, here are some immediate steps you can take:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and remove any debris.
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication if needed.
- Cover any sharp edges with dental wax or chewing gum to prevent further injury to the soft tissues of your mouth.
- Avoid consuming hot or cold beverages, as the exposed dentin may cause sensitivity.
Should You See a Dentist About a Chipped or Broken Tooth?
It’s crucial to see an emergency dentist as soon as possible if you have a chipped or broken tooth. Delaying treatment can lead to further damage, infection, or even tooth loss. Your dentist will evaluate the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Contact Manor Dental Centre if you’re in need of an emergency dentist in Leicester for a chipped or broken tooth. We are a high-quality dental clinic in Oadby, Leicester, offering dental services and non-surgical facial aesthetic treatments to clients in the Leicester area.
