Broken/ Chipped Teeth

Fractures and chips are usually caused by:

• biting on something hard like candy, nuts and bone

• Trauma

• Grinding

If the tooth is cracked or broken and the dentin or pulp chamber (the vital part of the tooth that has nerve and blood supply) is exposed; it is most likely that the tooth will hurt.

If a part of tooth has been broken off, here is what you should do at home:

1. Contact the dentist.

2. Rinse the broken piece and the mouth with lukewarm water.

3. Apply pressure to the area with a damp gauze for ten minutes if there is bleeding.

4. Place a clean cold, damp towel on the cheek to minimize swelling.

5. Bring the broken part to the dentist.

The nature of the break or fracture will determine what the dentist will do. If the nerve is exposed root canal therapy may be necessary.

The dentist may bond the tooth fragment back onto the tooth if possible.