Is a Chipped Tooth Serious?

A chipped tooth is a widespread problem, but it can also signify something more serious. A chip in the tooth could mean the nerve inside has been injured and needs to be treated professionally. If you are experiencing any symptoms like pain or swelling in your mouth, you should visit a medical professional. This is often not serious, but it does require prompt attention. This article will help you understand the basics of dental hygiene and what to do. 

The first step should always be to see your dentist to determine any underlying damage that needs immediate treatment. If the chip isn't too deep, your dentist may instruct you to take care of it at home by brushing away debris and using an antibiotic ointment on the area. 

What is a chipped tooth?

It's a small break in the enamel surface, which means that there has been some damage to or loss of this protective layer. It can happen from biting into hard foods, an accident with high impact (like when you fall and hit something), grinding teeth at night while sleeping, or even brushing too roughly.

What to do if you have a chipped tooth?

You must see your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will look at the damage and determine whether there has been any injury to the pulp underneath. If they find evidence of infection in this area, you will need to take some antibiotics and possibly have root canal therapy if the infection is severe.

If there has been no injury, then your dentist can usually repair a small chipped tooth right away by smoothing out any rough edges or covering it with bonding material that matches the color of your teeth. You might also be advised to use an antibiotic ointment to prevent the area from getting infected.

You mustn't try to go about fixing it on your own. It would help if you never used dental floss or any sharp object like an ear pick because this could cause further damage and lead to infection; instead, visit your dentist as soon as possible.

Why should you care?

This is not a severe injury, but it can be painful and lead to infection if you don't get treatment right away. If your dentist finds that the pulp has been injured or infected, then they may have to perform emergency root canal therapy to save your tooth from having to be pulled out.

Always see your dentist as soon as possible if you suspect that your tooth has been chipped. This is a good way to ensure that it doesn't become a severe medical condition requiring emergency treatment.

Signs of an infection

It is essential to see your dentist as soon as possible because this could indicate something more severe, like an underlying medical condition or damage underneath the pulp. Don't try to fix your teeth at home. Instead, visit your dentist as soon as you notice a chipped tooth. Symptoms that indicate infection include pain, swelling in the mouth or throat, and bleeding gums.

Request an appointment here: https://www.smilebeautification.com or call Rolando Cibischino D.M.D. at (201) 204-1355 for an appointment in our Hackensack office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth in Hackensack, NJ.