What To Do If You Chip or Break a Tooth

Accidents happen, and occasionally they involve your teeth. Chipped or cracked teeth can be a frightening experience. Being aware of what to do in the initial minutes following a tooth injury can preserve the tooth.

Stay Calm & Act Quickly

A chipped tooth is a dental emergency, but it’s manageable. Acting fast helps prevent further damage or infection.

Step 1: Rinse & Reduce Swelling

• Rinse your mouth gently with warm water
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling around the area
• Try to avoid hot or cold drinks if the tooth is sensitive

Step 2: Save Any Broken Pieces If Possible

If part of the tooth has broken off:

• Pick it up by the crown (top), not the root
• Place it in a small container with milk, saliva, or saline
• Bring it with you to your dental appointment; it may be usable

Step 3: Avoid Chewing on That Side

• Stick to soft foods
• Try your best to not chew gum, ice, or hard foods
• Avoid touching the chipped area with your tongue or fingers

If the tooth is sharp, you can cover the edge with:

• Sugar-free gum
• Dental wax, which is often found in drugstores

This protects your tongue and cheeks from cuts.

Step 4: Contact a Dentist Right Away

Chipped or broken teeth do not repair themselves. A dentist can recommend treatment based on the severity of the break.

You may need:

• A root canal if the nerve is exposed or painful
• An extraction only if the tooth cannot be saved
• Bonding or a filling for small chips
• A dental crown when a significant portion breaks

When It’s an Emergency

Seek immediate care if you experience:

• Signs of infection (swelling, heat, bad taste, fever)
• A knocked-out tooth
• Severe pain
• Bleeding that won’t stop

How to Prevent Future Breaks

While not every accident can be avoided, these habits help protect your teeth long term:

• Wear a sports mouthguard during athletics
• Avoid crunching on ice, popcorn kernels, & hard candy
• Don’t use your teeth as tools like opening packages or biting nails
• Keep up with dental cleanings to detect weakened enamel early

What to Remember

A chipped or broken tooth can feel very overwhelming, but quick action makes all the difference. Make sure to rinse the tooth, protect it, avoid chewing on it, and contact a dental professional as soon as possible. Dental teams help restore your tooth, relieve discomfort, and prevent complications so you can get back to smiling confidently again.