Broken or Chipped Tooth – What to Do
Did you break or chip a tooth from a fall, accident, sports injury, or biting something too hard? Don’t worry—Paramount Dental in Roseville is here to help 24/7 with emergency care.
Broken Tooth – Immediate Steps
Quick action can reduce damage and may even save the tooth. Here’s what to do:
- Collect the broken pieces and place them in a clean, dry container or bag.
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Call Paramount Dental at (916) 659-6508 right away.
The extent of the break will determine the extent of the necessary treatment. Prompt examination and diagnosis ensure the best chance to protect and restore your tooth.
Chipped Tooth – What You Can Do
A chipped tooth is usually not an emergency, but it still requires attention to prevent further damage. Take these steps:
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater.
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- If the tooth has a sharp edge, cover it with dental wax.
- Avoid chewing on the area with the chipped tooth.
- Contact Paramount Dental at (916) 659-6508 for an appointment.
Treatment depends on the size and depth of the chip. Even if it seems minor, a professional examination is necessary to ensure the tooth’s long-term health.
Emergency Care When You Need It
Whether your tooth is broken or chipped, immediate dental care gives you more treatment options and reduces the risk of pain and complications. Call Paramount Dental anytime at (916) 659-6508 — our team is ready to help.
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Tooth Broken or Chipped FAQs
Do small chips always need treatment?
This depends on the tooth. At times, polishing may be enough for tiny chips. However, chips that expose dentin or create sharp areas on the tooth need to be bonded to prevent increased sensitivity and further cracking.
How fast should I be seen?
You seek professional treatment within a day or two, and even sooner if there’s pain, sensitivity, or a large break. Prompt dental care helps protect the tooth nerve and provides more treatment options.
Will bonding match my tooth color?
Absolutely! Composite bonding comes in multiple shades and is color-blended for a natural look, especially on front teeth.
When is a crown better than bonding?
If a raised area of the tooth, also known as a cusp, is missing, there’s a large filling already on the tooth, or the tooth cracks when you bite down, a crown or onlay provides the strength that bonding alone can’t.
What if I feel a sharp edge right now?
Cover the sharp area of the tooth with dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect your cheek or tongue from injury. Eat soft foods, and book a dental visit.
Could I need a root canal?
Possibly, yes. Deep fractures or lingering/spontaneous pain can indicate nerve involvement. In those cases, root canal therapy relieves the pain and lets us restore the tooth securely.
