Managing Chipped Teeth – Major and Minor Injuries

A chipped tooth can be a minor cosmetic problem or a serious injury. If the damage only involves the outer layer or enamel, there is little risk to the pulp. Your tooth will stay in place, and your gums won’t bleed. You might not even notice the change unless a jagged or sharp area of the tooth irritates your mouth. Urgent treatment of a minor chip isn’t necessary; you can wait a few days, but see an affordable dentist as soon as it is convenient. If your damaged tooth is irritating your tongue or cheek, cover the sharp area with dental wax. Treatment options for minor chips include fillings, crowns, and caps.

Injuries that Extend to Dentin

Deeper fractures may involve your tooth’s dentin. These injuries often cause sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. If you delay in getting treatment, the prolonged exposure to bacteria can cause the inner pulp of your tooth to die, and pulp death often leads to serious infections and abscesses. Try to see your dentist as soon as possible to avoid complications and save your tooth. Treatment for an injury involving dentin usually includes a sedative dressing, a dental filling, a crown or cap, and follow-up x-rays in several months to ensure that the pulp is still alive.

Serious Pulp Damage from Chipped Teeth

If an injury has caused severe damage to the tooth pulp, your dentist may perform a root canal; this procedure involves removing the dying pulp and nerve tissue and replacing it with an inert substance to restore stability and prevent infection. If root canal treatment is not feasible, the tooth can be extracted. If you have suffered a chipped tooth or another type of dental emergency, don’t delay in getting treatment because of finances or fear of pain. Delays could cause increased pain, infection, or even tooth loss. An affordable dentist can determine the most cost-effective way to manage tooth injuries of any type, and modern dental technology offers many ways to manage pain and anxiety.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Detroit, call Gentle Dental of Michigan today at or make an appointment.