Immediate Discomforts and Risks
A common immediate consequence of a chipped tooth is heightened sensitivity, particularly to temperature changes. When enamel is compromised, the underlying dentin, with its microscopic tubules leading to the nerve, becomes exposed. This exposure causes sharp sensations when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, making daily activities uncomfortable. Localized pain may also emerge, especially when biting or applying pressure to the affected tooth.
The sharp or jagged edges of a chipped tooth can irritate and cut soft tissues like the tongue, lips, and inner cheeks. This constant friction can cause persistent discomfort, potentially leading to painful sores or small lacerations within the oral cavity.
Serious Long-Term Health Risks
Leaving a chipped tooth unattended can lead to escalating health concerns, moving beyond mere discomfort. If the chip is deep enough to reach the tooth’s inner pulp, a soft tissue containing nerves and blood vessels, bacteria can readily invade this vulnerable area. This bacterial ingress can result in an infection, causing inflammation, severe pain, and potentially leading to an abscess—a pus-filled pocket at the tooth’s root. Such infections cause significant discomfort and, if left untreated, may necessitate extensive dental procedures like a root canal or even extraction.
A chipped tooth also compromises the tooth’s structural integrity, making it more prone to further damage and fracture. A small chip can progressively worsen over time, developing into a larger crack or even a complete fracture of the tooth. This structural weakening can ultimately lead to the irreversible loss of the affected tooth, impacting chewing function and overall oral alignment. The compromised enamel surface creates an ideal environment for oral bacteria to accumulate, elevating the risk of tooth decay or cavities.
Severe and prolonged dental infections from an untreated chipped tooth or abscess can extend beyond the oral cavity. Bacteria from such infections have the potential to enter the bloodstream, circulating to other parts of the body and potentially affecting overall systemic health. This potential for widespread bacterial dissemination highlights the interconnectedness of oral health with general well-being, emphasizing prompt dental care.
What to Do While Waiting for Dental Care
If a tooth chips, contact a dental professional promptly. While awaiting the visit, temporary measures can help manage discomfort and protect the tooth.
Rinsing with warm water can cleanse the area and alleviate irritation. Applying a cold compress to the cheek can help reduce swelling or throbbing. To prevent sharp edges from cutting the tongue or cheek, cover the chipped area with dental wax or a small piece of sugar-free chewing gum. Consume soft foods and avoid biting down on the chipped tooth to prevent further damage.
Professional Dental Solutions
Dental professionals offer various treatments for chipped teeth, depending on damage severity. For minor chips, dental bonding uses a tooth-colored resin, applied and hardened to restore appearance. Larger chips or weakened teeth often require a dental crown, a custom cap placed over the entire tooth for protection, while veneers, thin custom shells, can also be bonded for aesthetic improvements. If the pulp is severely damaged or infected by a deep chip, a root canal may be performed to save the tooth. In extreme cases where repair is impossible, extraction might be the only option.