Depending on the severity of the damage of your broken tooth, you may or may not experience immediate discomfort.  Even if your chipped or broken tooth is not painful, it is never a good idea to leave it unattended.  Your broken or chipped tooth has the potential to cause further damage.  If the pulp is damaged, the pulp may be defenseless against bacterial infection and tooth decay.  Furthermore, any jagged edges left unattended may cut or scratch your tongue, lips or cheeks.

Some good ideas from Crystal Coast Dentistry include:

• • Rinse your mouth with warm water.  This will wash away any dirt or debris that may be left from initial trauma.

• • If there is pain and/or swelling, you may take over the counter pain relievers.  (Crystal Coast Dentistry urges you to only take OTC pain relievers if you have no allergies to OTC pain relievers, or if OTC pain relievers do not interfere with any other medications you are taking.)

• • An ice pack or a cold compress held to the side of the face closest to the broken or chipped tooth may help ease pain or swelling.

• • If bleeding is present, you may apply pressure with a clean gauze pad until the bleeding subsides.

Visit your dentist immediately to treat your cracked or broken tooth.  Crystal Coast Dentistry is here to serve you 5 days a week, and we accept emergencies.  Call us at 252-393-8168 to request an appointment.