What to do if You Chip a Tooth in Clear Lake
Chipped teeth are one of the most common injuries we see in our office. All it takes is a slip on the front porch, a soccer accident, or even an accidental bump to the face for your tooth to chip. A chipped tooth can be a scary experience, but it’s important to know that there are steps you can take to minimize the damage and get the help you need.
At Rosas Family Dentistry in Clear Lake, TX, we understand that dental emergencies happen, and we’re here to help. Here are the steps you should take if you chip a tooth:
Try to Find the Broken Piece of Tooth
If you chip a tooth, the first step is to try to find the broken piece of the tooth. Especially if the fracture is very large. This will help our Clear Lake dentist determine the best course of action for repairing the damage, as it’s sometimes possible to bond the fragment back into place.
If you’re not able to find the piece of the tooth, don’t worry – our dentist will still be able to assess the damage and come up with a treatment plan to repair the area.
Store the Tooth Fragment Correctly
If you do find the broken piece of tooth, it’s important to store it correctly so that it doesn’t dry out before you get to our office. The best way to do this is to place it in a small container of milk. If you don’t have milk on hand, you can also use contact solution or even water (but add a pinch of salt to it.) It’s important to avoid handling the tooth fragment as much as possible, as this can damage the cells on the tooth and make it harder to reattach. If your tooth is fully avulsed, never touch the root surface or attempt to scrub it clean.
Pain Relief and Management
There are several safe ways to manage your tooth pain before your dentist appointment. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort. In most cases, anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen (Motrin) tend to be best for tooth pain. You can also apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling and numb the discomfort a bit. Make sure you avoid eating or chewing anything on that side of your mouth as the weak tooth make break apart even more.
Call Our Office Immediately
After you’ve taken the above steps, the next step is to call our Clear Lake dentist’s office immediately. We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful, which is why we try to provide same-day appointments for our patients whenever possible. Our team will work to get you in as soon as possible to assess the damage and determine the best course of action. If our office is closed, be sure to leave a message; someone will be in touch with you to provide advice on what to do until your appointment.
What Are My Treatment Options?
Depending on the severity of your chipped tooth, we may recommend one of a few different treatments. First, it may be possible to bond the broken piece of tooth back into place. If that isn’t possible, we may consider smoothing the surface so that it doesn’t irritate your mouth, or bonding over it to recreate the surface that chipped off. In more severe breaks, a full-coverage crown or veneer may be recommended.
Emergency Dentist in Clear Lake
At Rosas Family Dentistry, we understand that dental emergencies can happen at any time. That’s why we offer emergency dental services for our patients in Clear Lake, TX. If you chip a tooth, it’s important to seek dental care right away to prevent further damage and ensure the best possible outcome. Our team is here to help, and we’ll work to get you in for an appointment as soon as possible.
In addition to emergency dental services, we offer a full range of general and cosmetic dentistry services to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. From routine cleanings to Invisalign clear aligners, we’re here to help you achieve your dental goals.
In conclusion, if you chip a tooth, it’s important to remain calm and take the above steps to minimize damage and manage pain. Contact our office immediately, and our team will work to get you in for an appointment as soon as possible. At Rosas Family Dentistry, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile.