A chipped tooth is a common occurrence for adults and children and it’s actually quite easy to do. Most commonly caused by an accident, trauma, or biting on something too hard, a chipped tooth can also be caused by dental conditions like tooth decay or teeth grinding. If you’ve recently chipped a tooth, it’s important to know about the potential problems it can cause, as well as ways to avoid one in the future.

Problems caused by a chipped tooth

Smaller chips are usually not problematic unless they are sharp and could possibly cut the inside of your mouth or lip. However, even a small chip can grow bigger and cause more complex issues down the road. If a chip is already significant in size or depth, it can lead to more serious problems such as severe pain, temperature sensitivity, swollen glands, and infections.

Should you get a chipped tooth repaired?

Generally speaking, yes, you should get a chipped tooth repaired. For minor chips, the dentist may only need to fill in the chip with a filling that matches your tooth or smooth the rough edges. More significant chips that don’t damage the root or pulp may require a crown to protect the tooth from future infections, while more severe chips that have compromised your dental pulp will likely require a root canal.

What if you can’t see a dentist right away?

If you are unable to see a dentist right away, there are a few things you can do on your own to minimize discomfort and prevent further damage. You can take a pain reliever and cover the sharp edge of the chip with dental wax or a wad of sugar-free gum to prevent cutting your mouth or lip. You can also rinse your mouth with salt water and restrict your diet to soft foods until you visit the dentist.

So, what can you do to avoid a chipped tooth? 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is the first step in preventing a chipped tooth. Ensuring you don’t have cavities or tooth decay can help keep your teeth healthy and strong.

A mouthguard can also help protect your teeth. Your dentist can talk with you about wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night, as well as help fit you for a mouthguard if you play sports and want added protection.

Avoiding hard candy and not chewing ice can also protect your teeth and help prevent a chipped tooth.

Schedule an appointment

If you have a chipped tooth or just want to learn more about ways to improve your oral health, make an appointment with us today!