Is a Chipped Tooth an Emergency?

Do you need emergency dentistry if you chipped a tooth? The answer depends on several factors, as we'll explain below.

That said, don't use this article (or any other internet resource for that matter) to self-diagnose. Even if the chip is minor and you feel fine, you should still notify your Oak Park dentist and schedule a consultation.

With that in mind, here's what to pay attention to when chipping a tooth.

Do You Need Urgent Dental Care After Chipping a Tooth?

The answer depends on the severity of the chip. Very often, dental chips don't require immediate action and you can wait until your dentist can see you during regular office hours. Some of the symptoms you need to pay attention to include:

The Size of the Chip

If only a small fragment of the tooth broke, most likely you don't need swift care. Even so, you shouldn't wait too long until fixing it as the chip has made your tooth more vulnerable to bacterial infection.

If a significant portion of your tooth is chipped or if the tooth cracked below the gum line, you need to get in touch with your emergency dentist in Oak Park right away. This is an emergency and the tooth can be repaired and saved based on how quickly you act.

The Amount of Pain

A minor chip will not cause any pain or discomfort. A large chip, on the other hand, may involve some nerve damage too, and that can result in a lot of pain, especially when you put pressure on the tooth.

Any Signs of Infection

If in addition to pain, you're also experiencing a fever, tooth sensitivity, swelling, or pus around the tooth, you need to get dental care immediately.

What Should You Do When You Chip a Tooth

The steps you should take after chipping a tooth depend on how bad the chip is.

If we're talking about a small chip, you should call your dentist and see when they are able to see you. If the edges of the tooth are a bit sharp, you can use a bit of dental wax to cover them and avoid hurting your tongue or the inside of your cheeks.

If the chip is large and you're experiencing bleeding top, first grab a clean cloth or gauze to control the bleeding. Next, you should try to locate the broken tooth pieces and put them in a glass of clean water.

Call Dr. Brandon Murphy at (708) 524-0330 and tell him about your emergency. Based on your symptoms, he will tell you how to control your symptoms until you can reach his office. Rest assured that he will schedule a same-day appointment to help you restore your oral health.

Chipped a Tooth? Call Us Now!

At Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, we understand that dental emergencies don't wait for regular office hours. That's why we offer same-day appointments so you can get the dental treatment you need when you need it.

Call us at (708) 524-0330 if you think you need urgent dental care.

To learn more about our services and book a regular appointment, you can also contact us online.