The enamel that covers your teeth is considered to be the most mineralized and hardest tissue in your body. But, unfortunately, your enamel has its limits. If you were hit in the mouth or you bite down on something hard, your tooth might chip or break.
A chipped or broken tooth may be more likely if your tooth has already experienced some type of decay. But the good news is there are a few things your dentist can do to repair your tooth once you’ve discovered it’s been broken.
How do I take care of my tooth while waiting for the dentist?
The first thing you need to do when you’ve broken or chipped your tooth is to contact your local dentists and make an appointment as soon as possible. It’s crucial to see a dentist because leaving your tooth broken and untreated can lead to an infection.
While you’re waiting for your dentist appointment, take care of your chipped or broken tooth by:
- Rinsing your mouth with saltwater.
- Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever if the tooth is causing pain.
- Covering the broken tooth with a piece of wax paraffin or sugarless chewing gum if the tooth has a jagged edge.
- Avoiding biting down on the broken tooth.
- Eating soft foods when you eat.
How will my dentist treat my broken tooth?
Your dental treatment will depend on how severely the tooth was damaged or chipped. You might be able to have the tooth repaired in a single office visit if only a piece of the tooth’s enamel was broken off. However, you may need to schedule a procedure if the damage is worse.
Your dentist may apply a dental filling on the damaged area if the break was minor or a cap if the break was major. In the event that the tooth was severely damaged or has become infected, the tooth may need to be removed. Each case is different.
Looking for local dentists in Warsaw IN?
It’s no secret that dental care is a vital part of your overall health. Unfortunately, up to 78% of people have had a cavity by the age of 17, and approximately 74% of Americans have some type of periodontal disease.
If you’re looking for local dentists in Warsaw to help fix a broken tooth, perform a tooth extraction, or fix other dental issues, Aegis Dental is the place for you. For more information about our trusted dentistry office or to schedule to visit the dentist, contact Aegis Dental today.