What Should You Do If You Chip or Break a Tooth?

Chipping or breaking a tooth can be a stressful experience. The good news is that if you take the right steps before treatment and seek prompt professional care, there is a good chance your tooth can be saved and restored.

Want to know how to fix a chipped tooth and more? At CK Dental & Associates in Washington, D.C., Dr. Woo Young Chang helps patients navigate dental emergencies and find the right solution for their smile. Call today to schedule an appointment.

Why teeth chip and break

While teeth are incredibly strong, they aren't indestructible. A chip or break can happen for many reasons, like biting down on something hard (think ice or hard candy), taking a hit to the mouth while playing sports, or even grinding your teeth at night.

You might notice an obvious crack and feel immediate pain, or the damage could be so subtle that it’s only spotted during a routine dental exam. No matter how it happens, getting it checked out by a professional as soon as possible is key. At CK Dental & Associates in Washington, D.C., we may recommend treatments, such as cosmetic veneers, dental crowns, or root canal therapy.

Steps to take before you see the dentist

If you've chipped or broken a tooth, there are a few simple steps you can take before seeing Dr. Chang:

Rinse your mouth: Gently rinse with warm salt water to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection.
Manage pain: If you’re in pain, over-the-counter pain relievers can help. A cold compress on the outside of your mouth can also reduce swelling.
Protect your mouth: If the broken tooth has a sharp edge, cover it with a piece of sugarless gum or wax to avoid cutting your tongue or cheek.
Save the piece: If you can, find the piece of the tooth, store it in milk or saliva, and bring it with you to our office.

How a chipped or broken tooth gets fixed

Want to know how to fix a chipped tooth in our office? Dr. Chang may recommend advanced treatment options, like:

Cosmetic veneers: For minor chips that are primarily cosmetic, a durable porcelain veneer can restore the appearance of the tooth.
Dental crown: When a break is more significant and compromises the strength of the tooth, a crown can fit over the visible portion to restore full function.
Root canal therapy: If the break has reached the pulp of the tooth, a root canal becomes necessary to remove the damaged tissue.

What to expect after treatment

Most treatments for a broken tooth deliver reliable, long-lasting results when accompanied by good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Cosmetic veneers and dental crowns blend in with your natural teeth and can last many years with proper care.

After root canal therapy, the tooth is typically restored with a crown. Dr. Chang will schedule follow-up appointments to check on your progress and ensure everything is holding up well. Catching any concerns early is always easier than addressing them after they have had time to develop.

Don't wait to restore your smile

Don't wait to address a broken tooth. The sooner you get it treated, the more options you will have about restoring your smile and oral health. Whether the situation calls for veneers, a dental crown, or root canal therapy, Dr. Woo Young Chang is here to help.

At CK Dental & Associates in Washington, D.C., each treatment plan is built around your tooth, smile, and long-term oral health. Call today to learn how to fix a chipped tooth and schedule your appointment.