How to Save a Chipped Tooth

Whether it's as a result of playing sports, leading an active lifestyle or an accident, a chipped tooth can occur at any time. While it is never pleasant, it's not the end of the world. Here are a few tips on what to do if your tooth gets chipped.

Instructions

1. Don't panic. Whatever event caused your tooth to become chipped has already occurred. There's no use dwelling on it.

2. Stay calm and take inventory. A cool head always prevails in these trying emergencies. Make sure that you have not other injuries which are otherwise more significant. If you do, please call 911.

3. Locate the tooth. Once you find the tooth, inspect the degree to which it is chipped. If it is minuscule, you may need to set-up up a time with your dentist to have the tooth smoothed so that the edge is not jagged and you do not risk cutting your tongue or gums. If the chip is larger or in fact the whole tooth has been lost, immediately clean the tooth gently in a solution of milk and water and leave submerged in that liquid. Be sure not to remove any of the nerves or surrounding tissue.

4. Go to the dentist. Conventional wisdom says that the best chance the patient has for saving the tooth occurs if the patient can get to the dentist within one hour of the accident. Once you've arrived at the dentist, he will determine the best course of action.

5. Don't worry! A chipped, broken or lost tooth is nothing that cannot be fixed seamlessly with the advancement of today's dentistry.

Tips & Warnings

• When receiving medical advice, always be sure to contact your doctor or health professional for proper emergency instruction.