Can I ignore my chipped tooth?

A chipped tooth is something that definitely should not be ignored! Even though it may not seem like a big deal, a chipped tooth can lead to a variety of problems down the road. If the chip is bad enough, a chipped tooth may even be considered a dental emergency.

What problems can occur if I don’t fix my chipped tooth?

Many people will ignore a chipped tooth because it does not appear to be important, especially if the chip is not visible, such as on the molars. However, taking action is a good idea because some teeth that are chipped go on to cause serious, significant issues. Some of these issues include:

• Pain
• Sensitivity to hot/cold temperatures
• Bad breath
• Infected roots
• Swelling in the glands
• Cuts from sharp edges
• Tooth aches
• Infections
• Tooth decay

And, in addition, ignoring a chipped tooth can allow the chip to grow, which opens up the possibility for necessary root canals or extractions. 

When should I take care of a chipped tooth?

The answer to this question is simple! You should always take care of a damaged tooth by having it looked at by your dentist. The good news is that, most of the time, minor chips don’t need a major repair. In fact, these minor chips are often fixed by filing the tooth or filling it with a dermal bond.

However, more extensive damage will require a more significant repair. If these repairs are postponed or put off, the damage could worsen and become more painful, so it is a good idea to act quickly. A significant chip is classified as one where the pulp or root are damaged. A chip that you suspect may be significant should immediately be reported to your emergency dentist.

How will my dentist fix my chipped tooth?

Like mentioned earlier, a minor chip likely only needs to be filed or filled. A more significant chip, however, may require repairs such as a root canal and placing a cap or crown.

Can chipped teeth be prevented?

Yes, chipped teeth can absolutely be prevented. The most important step to prevent chipped teeth is to maintain a high level of oral hygiene. This keeps the enamel strong. 

Another thing that is a common cause of a chipped tooth is sports. Most dentists will be able to help you get fitted for a mouthguard to provide protection during play.

The last common cause of chipped teeth is chewing on items such as pen caps, ice, hard candies, or even your fingernails. Avoiding these practices helps to reduce your chances of chipping a tooth. 

Emergency Dentist in Southern Illinois

Southern Illinois dentist Dr. Tim Loughran is here to help you handle and find solutions for chipped teeth or other dental emergencies that you are facing. Contact his staff at Tim Loughran Dentistry today to request an appointment or learn more. 

The post Chipped Teeth: Tips from an Emergency Dentist appeared first on Tim Loughran Dentistry.

When a front tooth breaks we immediately ask the age of the child. Younger children with baby teeth often have a tooth chip or loosen, while older children fracture teeth and sometimes, unfortunately, knock them out. A chipped tooth, whether big or small, should be taken care of as soon as possible. 

What do I do if my child breaks or chips a tooth?

If your child is older than six years and you are certain an adult tooth is involved for the chipped tooth, try to locate the broken piece and keep it moist, then ask your emergency dentist if the piece can be re-attached. Several times over the years we have been able to re-attach corners of broken front teeth.

What do I do if my child knocks out a tooth?

Locate the lost tooth and quickly rinse the tooth clean and keep it wet or moist. The best liquid is milk, and the next best is water or salted water, in a small container, bag, or paper towel. Immediately phone an emergency dentist for further instructions. We have successfully replanted a knocked-out front tooth

When a child has a chipped tooth or a tooth knocked out, their comfort is everyone’s concern, but sometimes the dental appearance is also important. Tim Loughran Dentistry can be your emergency dentist when a child’s tooth is involved, and we do the cosmetic dentistry to help everyone smile again.

Call today ! (618) 988-8130 , schedule an appointment, or find us on Facebook.

The post What should I do if my child chips a tooth? appeared first on Tim Loughran Dentistry.