A chipped tooth is a minor fracture of the tooth’s enamel or dentin. This injury compromises the protective outer layer, exposing the softer layers beneath. While a person may worry that brushing will cause further damage, maintaining oral hygiene is important to prevent infection and keep the area clean while waiting for professional evaluation.
Immediate Guidance on Brushing and Cleaning
Brushing is necessary after chipping a tooth, but it must be done with extreme caution to avoid irritating the fractured surface or surrounding gums. Immediately switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush to minimize abrasion to the exposed area and adjacent gum tissue. Applying minimal pressure is paramount; the goal is simply to remove plaque and food debris without causing pain or enlarging the chip.
Use a gentle brushing motion, potentially avoiding the immediate chipped area if it is highly sensitive or jagged. Using lukewarm water, rather than very cold or hot, helps reduce the discomfort that temperature changes can cause on the newly exposed dentin. Maintaining a regular brushing schedule helps prevent bacterial buildup, which could lead to decay or infection at the fracture site.
Rinsing the mouth is an important step to remove any loosened debris following gentle brushing. A warm salt water rinse is particularly beneficial, as dissolving about one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water creates a mild antiseptic solution. Swishing this solution gently helps to clean the area and soothe irritated gum tissue around the injury.
Addressing Sensitivity and Sharp Edges
A chipped tooth often results in increased sensitivity because the protective enamel layer is breached, exposing the underlying dentin. Dentin contains thousands of microscopic tubules that lead directly to the tooth’s pulp, which houses the nerve. To manage this discomfort, avoid consuming extremely hot or cold foods and drinks, as these temperature extremes can trigger sharp pain.
Switching to a toothpaste designed to reduce sensitivity can offer relief by blocking the dentinal tubules over time. Sharp, jagged edges on the remaining tooth structure can irritate or cut the delicate soft tissues of the mouth, such as the tongue and cheek. Temporary coverage is advised to protect these tissues until the dentist can smooth the tooth.
Use dental wax, available at most pharmacies, or a small piece of sugar-free chewing gum to cover the rough surface. Gently molding the wax or gum over the sharp edge creates a smooth, temporary barrier that prevents irritation to the mouth’s interior. This measure provides comfort and prevents soft tissue injury while waiting for professional care.
Professional Treatment Options for Repair
The appropriate professional treatment for a chipped tooth depends on the severity of the damage, which only a dentist can accurately assess. For minor chips affecting only the outermost enamel layer, a dentist may perform smoothing or polishing. This involves gently contouring the rough edges to restore a smooth, functional surface and prevent irritation.
When the chip is small to moderate, dental bonding is a common and quick solution. This process uses a tooth-colored composite resin material that the dentist applies, molds, and shapes to restore the tooth’s natural contour. The resin is then hardened with a special light, bonding the material to the remaining tooth structure.
For more extensive damage, such as when a significant portion of the tooth is missing or the chip involves a highly visible front tooth, a veneer or a crown may be necessary. A dental veneer is a thin, custom-made shell, typically porcelain, that covers the entire front surface of the tooth to improve appearance and protect the structure. If the fracture is large enough to compromise the tooth’s structural integrity, a dental crown, which fully encases the remaining tooth, provides maximum protection and strength.