I have a chipped tooth, what’s next?

A chipped tooth is one of those things that happens when you least expect it, and it leaves you wondering what to do. At The Practice, we know how important it is to address issues like this promptly, ensuring you take the right steps to take care of your dental health. 

Here’s a quick and simple guide explaining what to do when you find yourself with a chipped tooth: 

Step 1: Assess the damage

The first thing you should do in this situation is assess the damage and the extent of the chipped tooth. Take a look in the mirror, is it just a minor chip or is there more serious damage involving a large portion of the tooth? The severity of the injury will determine the next steps you take. 

Step 2: Rinse your mouth

We recommend gently rinsing your mouth with warm water. This will help remove any debris and ensure a clean environment that is ready for examination. If it’s bleeding we recommend using a piece of gauze, applied with gentle pressure until the bleeding stops.

Step 3: Save any tooth fragments

If possible, it’s best to save any tooth fragments. You can place these in a container of milk or in your saliva. Saving the tooth fragment may be helpful for potential dental restoration procedures. 

Step 4: Manage pain and swelling

Over-the-counter pain relievers and a cold compress can help manage any pain or swelling associated with the chipped tooth. Avoid using aspirin directly on the gum, as it can cause further irritation.

Step 5: Schedule an appointment at The Practice

Whether the chip is big or small, the next step is booking an appointment with our experienced dental team at The Practice. Our West End dentists will assess the damage, discuss potential treatment options and formulate the best way to cater to your specific needs. 

Step 6: Possible solutions

Once you arrive at your appointment at The Practice, our skilled dentists will evaluate the chipped tooth and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. This may include options such as dental bonding, veneers, or crowns, depending on the severity of the chip.

Step 8: Preventive measures

After providing treatment for the chipped tooth, our team will provide guidance on preventive measures to avoid future incidents. This may include lifestyle adjustments, protective mouthguards for specific activities, and regular dental check-ups to catch any issues early on.

Emergency Dentist West End

At The Practice, we pride ourselves on our ability to make time for any patient in pain to be seen on the day you call. We don’t want you to experience pain for longer than you should and our dentists will try and fit you as promptly as we can. 

For emergency appointments at our South Brisbane dental clinic, contact us on 07 3733 3223.