The First Steps for Getting Dental Care for a Chipped Tooth

A chipped tooth can be a frightening situation. This review highlights how you can get the dental care that you need for a chipped tooth and ensure that the process goes smoothly.

How to deal with a chipped tooth before seeing the dentist

The first steps to take after chipping a tooth include rinsing your mouth with saltwater, applying pressure to the affected area, and using a cold compress to relieve the swelling and discomfort. It is also important to call the dentist as soon as possible after chipping a tooth and scheduling a prompt visit to have the tooth restored. 

Find and preserve the tooth (if knocked out)

If the tooth has been knocked out of its socket entirely, then it is important to locate the tooth and preserve it. Of course, this does not apply if it is only a chipped tooth. However, there are times when a patient may not realize that one of their teeth has been knocked out in cases of severe dental trauma, so be sure to inspect the mouth and extent of the trauma thoroughly. 

Rinse your mouth with saltwater

Patients can keep their mouth clean after chipping tooth by using a saltwater rinse (add 2 tablespoons of salt to 1 cup of water). This can kill bacteria in the mouth and help prevent oral infection, in addition to reducing the level of gum swelling and overall discomfort. If the chipped tooth is not an emergency, then the patient should do all they can to keep their mouth clean until the day of their scheduled dental visit. 

Apply pressure and stop the bleeding

If there is any blood after the chipped tooth, you can stop the bleeding by applying gauze and placing pressure on the affected area after cleaning the mouth with a saltwater rinse. This can help reduce discomfort and the risk of an oral infection. 

Use a cold compress and pain relief medication

A cold compress can help patients manage their pain until the dental visit. Pain relief medication is also acceptable if the recommended dosage is not exceeded. For severe pain that is intolerable, the patient should visit the dentist as soon as possible. 

Visit the dentist as soon as possible

The dentist may recommend emergency treatment to deal with severe pain or a knocked-out tooth. However, the patient may be able to wait a few days for a more convenient time to visit the dentist. In either case, calling the dentist should be one of the first steps that the patient takes. 

Call our dental team for chipped tooth treatment

Our dental practice treats chipped teeth, and we take pride in helping our patients get the care they need without unnecessary discomfort or stress. If you have chipped a tooth and need prompt care to relieve discomforting symptoms and restore the tooth’s appearance, then call our team today.

Are you considering chipped tooth treatment in the Lilburn area? Get more information at https://www.lilburnfamilydentistry.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth in Lilburn, GA.