Chipped Tooth Emergency: What to Do in Boynton Beach, FL
Chipping a tooth can be a startling experience.
Whether it happens while enjoying your favorite crunchy snack or during a sports game,
it’s important to know what to do next, especially if you’re in Boynton Beach, FL.
A chipped tooth can cause pain, sensitivity, and concern about your smile’s appearance.
Knowing how to handle this dental emergency can save you time, discomfort, and potential long-term problems.
Immediate Steps After Chipping a Tooth
Here’s what to do right away if you chip a tooth:
- Rinse your mouth: Use warm water to clean the area.
- Save the fragment: If possible, retrieve the chipped piece and store it in milk or saline solution.
- Control bleeding: Apply pressure with gauze if there’s any bleeding.
- Relieve pain: Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Protect your mouth: Cover any sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum to prevent cuts.
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Call us: Contact Dorris Dental at 12658 S Military Trl Suite 104, Boynton Beach, FL 33436, right away to schedule an emergency appointment.
We are here to help you feel better.
Why You Need to See a Dentist Quickly
Even a small chip can lead to bigger problems if left untreated.
Here’s why prompt dental care is crucial:
- Prevent infection: A chipped tooth can expose the inner layers of the tooth to bacteria.
- Avoid sensitivity: Damage to the enamel can cause significant sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Restore appearance: Repairing the chip can restore your smile and confidence.
- Prevent further damage: A chip can weaken the tooth, making it more susceptible to further breakage.
Treatment Options for a Chipped Tooth at Dorris Dental
At Dorris Dental, we offer several solutions to repair a chipped tooth.
The best option depends on the size and location of the chip.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the chipped area, shaping it to match the tooth’s natural appearance, and hardening it with a special light.
It is a quick and cost-effective solution for minor chips.
Dental Veneers
Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of the tooth.
They are ideal for larger chips or if you want to improve the overall appearance of your smile.
Dental Crowns
If the chip is extensive and has weakened the tooth significantly, a crown may be necessary.
A crown covers the entire tooth, providing strength and protection.
Root Canal
In rare cases, if the chip is deep enough to damage the pulp (the inner part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels), a root canal may be required to remove the infected pulp and save the tooth.
Comparing Treatment Options
Here’s a quick comparison of the common treatments for a chipped tooth:
| Treatment | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Bonding | Quick, affordable, non-invasive | Not as durable as other options | Small chips, front teeth |
| Dental Veneers | Natural-looking, durable, stain-resistant | More expensive than bonding | Larger chips, cosmetic improvements |
| Dental Crowns | Strong, protects the entire tooth | More invasive, requires more tooth structure removal | Extensive damage, weakened teeth |
Preventing Chipped Teeth
While accidents happen, you can take steps to minimize your risk of chipping a tooth:
- Wear a mouthguard: If you play sports, especially contact sports, wear a mouthguard.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects: Don’t chew on ice, hard candies, or pens.
- Address teeth grinding: If you grind your teeth (bruxism), especially at night, talk to us about a night guard.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing help keep your teeth strong and healthy. Schedule routine dental exams.
Emergency Dental Care at Dorris Dental
At Dorris Dental, we understand that dental emergencies can happen at any time.
We offer same-day emergency appointments to address issues like a chipped tooth promptly.
Our experienced team, including Dr. Brenda Schobert, Dr. Khalid Aldorri and Dr. Safa Alathari, is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective care to restore your smile and relieve your discomfort.
Considering your options? We can help! Call us at 561-677-9080 or book a consultation to get started.
FAQs About Chipped Teeth
Will my chipped tooth heal on its own?
No, a chipped tooth will not heal on its own.
Enamel, the outer layer of your tooth, does not have the ability to regenerate.
It requires professional dental treatment to restore the tooth’s structure and prevent further damage.
How much does it cost to fix a chipped tooth?
The cost of fixing a chipped tooth varies depending on the treatment needed.
Dental bonding is usually the most affordable option, while veneers and crowns are more expensive.
We offer various financing options to make treatment accessible. Contact our office for a personalized estimate.
What if I can’t get to the dentist right away?
If you can’t get to the dentist immediately, continue to follow the initial steps: rinse your mouth, save the fragment (if you have it), control bleeding, relieve pain, and protect your mouth.
Avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could further damage the tooth. Contact Dorris Dental as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.
Is a chipped tooth considered a dental emergency?
Yes, a chipped tooth is generally considered a dental emergency, especially if it causes pain or sensitivity.
Prompt treatment can prevent infection, alleviate discomfort, and restore your smile.
We prioritize emergency appointments at Dorris Dental to address these situations quickly.
If you’re dealing with a chipped tooth emergency in Boynton Beach, FL, don’t hesitate to contact us at Dorris Dental.
Our experienced team is here to provide the prompt and effective care you need to restore your smile and get back to enjoying life without discomfort or embarrassment.
