The chipped tooth seems like it is not a big deal, but it can become painful and sensitive instantly if left untreated. It can also get infected easily. If you accidentally bite something hard or fall, getting help quickly might save your smile. Knowing when to call a dentist in Coquitlam may help you if you ever find your tooth damaged.
What Happens When You Chip a Tooth?
When a tooth chips, the outer layer of enamel breaks off. This exposes the inner dentin or nerve, causing increased sensitivity to temperature and pressure. Bacteria can get in through even small chips, leading to decay or infection of the tooth.
Common causes include:
- Biting hard foods (like ice or popcorn kernels)
- Accidents or sports injuries
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Old fillings that weaken the tooth
If a tooth feels sharp or sensitive or is causing you pain, that’s a reason to get it seen to.
When to See a Dentist for a Chipped Tooth
Most minor chips can wait a day or two but if you have this symptom, get emergency care. You should seek emergency chipped tooth treatment if.
- You feel pain when chewing or drinking.
- The chip exposes the inner tooth or nerve.
- There’s visible bleeding or swelling.
- You have trouble eating or speaking.
If possible, rinse your mouth with warm water, keep any broken pieces, and visit your dentist near you as soon as possible.
Best Chipped Tooth Repair Options
The right chipped tooth repair choices vary with the extent of the damage. The dentist will suggest one of the following interventions:
- Dental Bonding: The best solution for minor chips; a resin of the same colour as the tooth quickly fixes and reshapes the tooth.
- Dental Veneers: A thin layer of porcelain that covers and makes the front teeth visually perfect again after aesthetic chips.
- Dental Crowns: The ones that are used to protect and strengthen a tooth that has become weak due to a bigger chip.
- Root Canal Therapy: A must if the chip leads to the nerve of the tooth or causes the nerve to be damaged.
- Dental Implants or Bridges: The options for the most extreme situations where the tooth has to be extracted.
Each treatment helps restore your smile’s function and appearance effectively.
How to Fix a Chipped Tooth at Home (Before Seeing a Dentist)
When you are not able to see a dentist right away, at least do these things.
- To soothe the mouth that needs help, you can rinse it with not-too-hot salt water.
- Put some wax on the sharp edges of your teeth not to injure the inside of your mouth.
- If you happen to be in pain, it would be better to take some painkillers.
- Do not chew with the broken side of your mouth.
- Put a cold compress on the area to relieve swelling.
These steps don’t replace professional care but can help until you reach a dentist in Coquitlam.
The Best Way to Repair a Chipped Tooth
The treatment of a chipped tooth is dependent on prompt action. If you receive treatment quickly, there is a better chance of saving your tooth. Slightly damaged tooth fillings need one visit; but, deep fillings require more than one appointment.
- Delaying treatment can cause.
- Tooth sensitivity or nerve damage.
- Infection or abscess.
- Misaligned bite and jaw discomfort.
- Costlier future treatments.
How to Prevent Chipped Teeth in the Future
With a few simple habits, you can minimize the odds of a dental emergency occurring.
- Avoid biting hard foods or ice.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or if you grind your teeth.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups.
- Keep your enamel strong with fluoride toothpaste.
- If your teeth are strong and healthy, they won’t fall out easily. So do your daily
Brushing and flossing, plus visiting your dentist regularly, will go a long way in making them strong.
Bring Back Your Confident Smile Today!
Chipped your tooth? Visit Lafarge Dental for quick, gentle repair that brings back your smile and confidence. Book your appointment today!
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FAQs
Is it possible for a chipped tooth to heal by itself?
No, since enamel is not regenerated, a chipped tooth has to be fixed by a professional.
What should I do if my chipped tooth is not hurting?
Even a chip without pain can become worse over time, so a dentist’s visit for a quick check is the safest option.
How long after chipping a tooth should I be visiting?
If possible, be there within 24–48 hours to avoid infection or nerve damage.
Can veneers be a good choice for a chipped front tooth?
Certainly, veneers are perfect for the restoration of both the look and the