Accidents happen—whether it’s biting into something hard, a sports injury, or even a fall, chipping or breaking a tooth is more common than you might think. Knowing what to do right away can make the difference between saving or losing your tooth.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
Not all chips are the same. Some may only affect the enamel, while others expose deeper layers and nerves. Look in a mirror to see how much of the tooth is broken and check for pain or bleeding.
Step 2: Rinse Your Mouth
Use warm water to gently rinse away any debris or blood. This helps clean the area and reduce the risk of infection.
Step 3: Save the Broken Piece (If Possible)
If a part of your tooth has broken off, place it in a clean container with milk, saline solution, or your own saliva. Sometimes a dentist can reattach it.
Step 4: Control Pain and Swelling
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Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling.
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Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
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Avoid chewing on the injured side.
Step 5: Protect the Tooth
If the tooth is sharp or jagged, cover it with sugarless gum or dental wax to prevent cuts inside your mouth until you see a dentist.
Step 6: See a Dentist as Soon as Possible
Even small chips can worsen if left untreated. A dentist may:
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Smooth and polish a small chip
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Use bonding material or a filling for moderate breaks
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Place a crown for larger fractures
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Perform a root canal if the pulp (nerve) is exposed
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In severe cases, extract the tooth and replace it with an implant or bridge
⭐ Final Thoughts
Chipped or broken teeth should never be ignored. Acting quickly—by cleaning the area, protecting the tooth, and getting to the dentist—can save your tooth and prevent further damage.
