Did you know there are an array of issues that may cause a chipped tooth? In fact, something as simple as biting your toast in the morning can cause a chip.
Regardless of how the damage occurs, it would be advisable to visit a dentist as soon as possible but if that’s gonna take a while and you’re looking for a temporary tooth repair kit, we’ve reviewed the best tooth repair kits for ya!— here are our picks for the 7 BEST TOOTH REPLACEMENT OPTIONS.
Common Causes of Chipped Teeth
A chipped tooth is one of the most common dental injuries that can occur. If you bite into something that is too hard, are in an accident where you hit your head, or if there is an underlying problem with your teeth that causes damage, a chip may appear. Regardless of the cause of the chip, it can be frustrating.
Remember, your dentist can treat the condition to help ensure it does not get any bigger. One treatment option includes placing a cap over the affected area to protect the tooth.
Even though most people view a chipped tooth as a cosmetic issue, it can also cause potential health and medical problems. For example, a chipped tooth may lead to larger issues by exposing the tooth’s sensitive inner parts. If the exposure is not repaired, it may cause an infection, decay, or the eventual loss of the tooth.
What to Do After Chipping Your Tooth
There are a few tips to take before attempting chipped front tooth repair. The first step is to rinse your mouth using warm water. You can also apply pressure if the tooth broke and caused any bleeding. If swelling occurs, add a cold compress to the outside of your mouth. You can also take anti-inflammatories, but make sure you do not take more than what is recommended.
Some other things you can do to help reduce pain or discomfort after chipping a tooth include:
- Drink peppermint tea, which has antimicrobial properties.
- Elevate your head while sleeping.
- Dab clove oil into the area with a cotton swab or ball.
- Use numbing gels to minimize pain.
- Use a saltwater rinse in your mouth.
If you can find the piece of the tooth that chipped or broke off, wrap it up in wet gauze to take to the dentist.
What to Avoid When Dealing with a Chipped Tooth at Home
While you can take a few steps to handle a chipped tooth at home, there are also a few things you should avoid doing. For example, you should never try to grind down the edges of your tooth using a nail file or sandpaper. Also, do not try to extract your tooth using pliers or other tools.
Even though these may seem like extreme steps, some people have done this before. This can cause more issues and more damage. It may also lead to a serious infection. While using kits and taking small steps to repair the issue, make sure you do not go too far.
Protecting Your Mouth
Until you can see a dentist, it is necessary to protect your mouth, especially if the tooth has a jagged edge or small chip. To do this, you can use dental wax on the edge, which will keep it from slicing your tongue or causing other damage.
If a larger chip has occurred, it is best not to take this step, as you may wind up causing more damage. Some drugstores carry over the counter broken tooth repair kits, which include dental wax. Try not to chew with the damaged tooth until you can have it professionally repaired and evaluated.
How to Protect Your Mouth with a Temporary Tooth Kit / Tooth Repair Kit
When it comes to temporary chipped tooth repair at home, you can find kits available online and in drugstores. A temporary tooth kit / tooth repair kit may be beneficial while you wait to see your dentist.
As mentioned above, some of the kits include dental wax, which can be used to cover sharp or jagged edges. Others include materials you can mold into your tooth’s shape and use to fill in gaps present on missing or broken teeth.
It is important to remember that tooth repair kits are only designed for temporary use. They do not handle the underlying issues that may cause more complications, tooth loss, an infection, or another problem. You should never substitute these kits for professional dental care services.
How Your Dentist Will Repair Your Chipped Tooth
A dentist has access to several treatment methods when it comes to a chipped tooth. One option is to use cosmetic contouring, which is when your dentist polishes the surface or the jagged edge. Dental bonding can also be used to reform the missing part of the tooth. If you found the part of the tooth that broke off, it may be able to be reattached by your dentist.
Another option is a root canal. This is necessary if the crack or chip goes deeper than the surface. At this point, more extensive repairs are needed. If the crack goes all the way into the pulp, a root canal is needed.
In some situations, surgery will be necessary. This is something your dentist can fill you in about.
Tips to Prevent Future Chipped Teeth
If you have a chipped tooth, you need to take steps to prevent this from happening again in the future. To do this, there are a few steps you can take.
First, make sure you go to dentist appointments regularly to have your teeth evaluated and cleaned. You should also practice good oral hygiene and reduce the number of acidic foods and sugary foods you consume. If you participate in sports, always wear a mouthguard. Your dentist can provide a custom fit mouthguard.
If you clench or grind your teeth, make sure to seek treatment. Usually, this includes wearing a nightguard while you are sleeping, which will provide an additional layer of protection. If you are dealing with acid reflux, have it treated because it can cause serious damage to your teeth.
Determining the underlying cause of your chipped tooth is important; however, if it is related to gapped or crooked teeth, your dentist may recommend braces or invisible aligners. These can help improve your bite and your smile.
Use Caution with Temporary Tooth Replacement Kits
If you are worried about chipped tooth repair costs if you go to the dentist, you may be tempted to use a short-term temporary tooth replacement over the counter kit— this will work for a while but eventually, you will have to visit a dentist to avoid any serious health issues.
The Right Options to Handle Temporary Chipped Tooth Repair at Home
When it comes to temporary chipped tooth repair at home, you have options. It should be noted that as long as you’re looking for a short-term solution, everything should go just fine, however, for a permanent solution, you will have to visit a dentist.
Having said that— here are our picks for the 7 best tooth repair kits.
