Accidents happen, and occasionally they involve your teeth. Chipped or cracked teeth can be a frightening experience. Being aware of what to do in the initial minutes following a tooth injury can preserve the tooth.
Stay Calm & Act Quickly
A chipped tooth is a dental emergency, but it’s manageable. Acting fast helps prevent further damage or infection.
Step 1: Rinse & Reduce Swelling
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm water
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling around the area
- Try to avoid hot or cold drinks if the tooth is sensitive
Step 2: Save Any Broken Pieces If Possible
If part of the tooth has broken off:
- Pick it up by the crown (top), not the root
- Place it in a small container with milk, saliva, or saline
- Bring it with you to your dental appointment; it may be usable
Step 3: Avoid Chewing on That Side
- Stick to soft foods
- Try your best to not chew gum, ice, or hard foods
- Avoid touching the chipped area with your tongue or fingers
If the tooth is sharp, you can cover the edge with:
- Sugar-free gum
- Dental wax, which is often found in drugstores
This protects your tongue and cheeks from cuts.
Step 4: Contact a Dentist Right Away
Chipped or broken teeth do not repair themselves. A dentist can recommend treatment based on the severity of the break.
You may need:
- A root canal if the nerve is exposed or painful
- An extraction only if the tooth cannot be saved
- Bonding or a filling for small chips
- A dental crown when a significant portion breaks
When It’s an Emergency
Seek immediate care if you experience:
- Signs of infection (swelling, heat, bad taste, fever)
- A knocked-out tooth
- Severe pain
- Bleeding that won’t stop
How to Prevent Future Breaks
While not every accident can be avoided, these habits help protect your teeth long term:
- Wear a sports mouthguard during athletics
- Avoid crunching on ice, popcorn kernels, & hard candy
- Don’t use your teeth as tools like opening packages or biting nails
- Keep up with dental cleanings to detect weakened enamel early
What to Remember
A chipped or broken tooth can feel very overwhelming, but quick action makes all the difference. Make sure to rinse the tooth, protect it, avoid chewing on it, and contact a dental professional as soon as possible. Dental teams help restore your tooth, relieve discomfort, and prevent complications so you can get back to smiling confidently again.