A chipped or broken tooth can happen unexpectedly. Whether it’s due to biting into something hard, a fall, or an accident, knowing what to do next can help prevent further damage and discomfort. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to handle a dental emergency and when to seek professional care.

Assess the Damage

The first step is to check the severity of the injury. A minor chip might not be painful, but a deep crack or break can expose nerves, leading to discomfort or sensitivity. If you notice sharp edges or feel pain while eating or drinking, it’s best to act quickly.

Types of Tooth Damage:

• Minor Chip: Small, shallow damage that doesn’t expose the tooth’s inner layers.
• Moderate Crack: A visible fracture that may cause sensitivity but doesn’t always lead to pain.
• Severe Break: A large piece of the tooth is missing, exposing the dentin or pulp, which can cause pain and increase the risk of infection.

What to Do Immediately

If you have a chipped or broken tooth, follow these steps to protect it until you can see a dentist:

1. Rinse Your Mouth: Use warm water to clean the area and remove debris.
2. Control Bleeding: If there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze.
3. Reduce Swelling: Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to minimize swelling.
4. Save the Broken Piece: If possible, keep the fragment and bring it to your dental appointment.
5. Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing with the affected tooth.
6. Use Temporary Protection: If the tooth is sharp or painful, cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum.

When to See a Dentist

While minor chips may not require immediate treatment, moderate to severe damage should be assessed by a dentist as soon as possible. If you experience any of the following, schedule an appointment immediately:

• Persistent pain or sensitivity
• Swelling around the tooth or gums
• A large piece of the tooth is missing
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Signs of infection, such as pus or bad breath

At Dentists At Metrotown, we provide emergency dental care in Burnaby, BC, and are open weekends to accommodate urgent cases.

Treatment Options

The right treatment depends on the extent of the damage. Here’s what your dentist might recommend:

• Bonding: For minor chips, composite resin can be applied to restore the tooth’s shape.
• Dental Crown: If a significant portion of the tooth is missing, a crown can cover and protect it.
• Root Canal: If the damage reaches the pulp, a root canal may be needed to remove infected tissue and prevent further complications.
• Tooth Extraction: In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, removal may be necessary, followed by options like dental implants or bridges.

Preventing Future Tooth Injuries

While accidents happen, taking precautions can reduce the risk of a chipped or broken tooth:

• Wear a mouthguard during sports activities.
• Avoid biting into hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy.
• Do not use your teeth to open packaging.
• Maintain regular dental check-ups to catch early signs of weakness or decay.

Contact Us for Emergency Dental Care in Burnaby, BC

If you have a chipped or broken tooth and need urgent care, don’t wait! Dentists At Metrotown is open weekends to provide emergency dental services in Burnaby, BC.

Schedule your appointment today! Call us or visit our website to book now.