What Should You Do if You Chip a Tooth?

Chipping a tooth can catch you off guard, leaving you wondering about the next steps. Dr. McGuire and his team at Great Lakes Dentures and Implants will recommend the most conservative solution to repair your damaged tooth, restoring its health and function. Remember, tooth chips and injuries do not always seem as serious as they are, so it’s important to seek emergency dental care to prevent complications. 

What Should You Do if You Accidentally Chip a Tooth?

Biting down on hard candy or experiencing a sports-related dental injury can result in a chipped or damaged tooth. If there are any tooth fragments, pick them up carefully and place them in a small container filled with milk or saliva to keep them moist. Rinse your mouth with water, apply cold compresses to help reduce swelling, and use over-the-counter pain medication to relieve any discomfort. Make sure to contact our Plainwell practice to have your tooth evaluated. 

What Are Your Chipped Teeth Treatment Options?

The type of treatment for chipped teeth can vary depending on the extent of the damage. Dr. McGuire will recommend the most conservative solution to restore your healthy smile. 

Here’s a look at some of your treatment options for chipped teeth: 

• Dental Bonding: Dental bonding involves the application of an aesthetic, tooth-colored composite resin material to your tooth surfaces to address a range of concerns. It is ideal for repairing minor chips, restoring the health and natural appearance of your smile. 
• Porcelain Veneers: If the tooth damage is more extensive, Dr. McGuire may recommend veneers. These ultra-fine porcelain shells are bonded to the front surfaces of your teeth, fortifying their structure and restoring their health and natural appearance. 
• Dental Crowns: If a tooth is fractured and has lost a significant amount of its structure, a dental crown can be a better solution to repair the tooth. Your tooth-colored restoration will cover the damaged tooth, restoring its form and function and preventing further damage. 
• Root Canal Therapy: If the decay or damage extends to the tooth’s inner pulp, you may need a root canal treatment to preserve the tooth and relieve your discomfort. After treatment, the tooth can become more brittle and prone to breakages, which is why we recommend placing a dental crown for protection. 
• Tooth Extraction: If a tooth sustains severe damage, it may need to be extracted to avoid complications. Extracting a tooth is always the last resort when the damage is beyond repair. 
• Tooth Replacement: If you have a tooth extracted, the neighboring teeth may shift toward the gap, leading to crooked teeth and a misaligned bite. Dr. McGuire may recommend replacing the missing tooth with a dental bridge, partial denture, or single tooth implant to restore your smile’s health, function, and natural appearance. 

Restorative Dentistry Near Me in Plainwell, MI

If you have a chipped or damaged tooth, contact Great Lakes Dentures and Implants to schedule an appointment. Dr. McGuire will recommend the most conservative solution to restore your smile. We invite you to call 269-888-6686 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!