James Frizzell, DDS, owns and operates a private practice in Niagara Falls, Ontario, with four committed oral hygienists on staff. Dr. James Frizzell treats patients with a wide range of dental conditions, and emphasizes preventive care.
A chipped or broken tooth requires dental attention following the injury as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are some recommended self-care measures that can help prevent further injuries and manage symptoms.
Pain can result from a broken, chipped, or fractured tooth. Motrin and other OTC pain relievers can help manage the pain. It's also helpful to rinse the mouth with salt water. Between the accident and the dental evaluation, avoid eating. If you must eat, only soft foods that require less chewing are safe.
Some broken, fractured, or chipped teeth have sharp edges that can cut the tongue and tissues in the mouth. To avoid further injury, cover the sharp or jagged tooth with sugarless chewing gum or wax paraffin.