If you suffer a chipped, broken, or fractured tooth, you should visit a dentist or oral surgeon in Plantation as soon as possible. If you wait a long time to resolve the issue, the tooth can become more damaged. Sometimes the tooth can get infected, resulting in serious health risks and possible tooth loss.
How Can Your Dentist Fix a Chipped Tooth?
Depending on the severity of the injury, a chipped or broken tooth may require treatment, even for children. A dentist can probably fix the tooth in one office visit if only a tiny piece of enamel has fallen off. A severely fractured or damaged tooth would need a more expensive procedure that might take more than one appointment with your oral surgeon. Some potential treatments include:
- Filling or Bonding: Your dentist might be able to place a filling to repair the damage if you accidentally chipped away a tiny portion of the enamel.
- Dental Veneers: If a front tooth is chipped or fractured, your dentist can apply a dental veneer to restore it to appear perfect and healthy.
- Dental Cap or Crown: If a significant section of your tooth is lost, your dentist may file a portion of the remaining tooth and cap it with a crown, which is meant to safeguard the tooth, maintain function, and enhance aesthetic beauty.
How to Deal With It in the Meantime
The ideal thing to do is call your oral surgeon as soon as your situation comes up, but until you can see your dentist, you can try following these self-care measures.
- Take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or any other medicine to lessen the pain or discomfort.
- Rinse with warm salt water in your mouth to clean it and lower the chance of infection.
- Apply pressure to stop any bleeding.
- To protect your tongue and cheek if the injury has left a jagged or sharp edge, cover it with a piece of sugarless chewing gum or wax paraffin.
- If eating is necessary, choose softer foods and avoid biting down on the broken tooth.
- You can apply clove oil to the area because it contains anti-inflammatory properties.
Do You Need an Oral Surgeon in Plantation?
Remember, do not wait to handle your chipped tooth. Call your dentist to schedule an appointment.