What to Do If You Chip a Tooth: A Step-by-Step Emergency Guide

Accidents happen. Whether you bite down on something hard, take a tumble or experience a sports injury, a chipped tooth can be a stressful surprise. At our dental office in Gladstone, Dr. Charles Mosley understands how alarming dental emergencies can be. That’s why we’re here to walk you through exactly what to do if you chip a tooth, so you can stay calm and get the care you need—fast.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

 Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Damage

First things first—take a deep breath. Chipped teeth are surprisingly common, and with prompt care, your smile can be fully restored. Begin by gently rinsing your mouth with warm water to cleanse the area. If you have salt on hand, mix a small amount into the water to create a saltwater rinse—this helps reduce the risk of infection and can soothe any irritation or soreness.

Step 2: What to Do if There’s Bleeding and Swelling

Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze or a soft cloth to stop any bleeding and protect the surrounding tissue. Swelling is also a common reaction to dental trauma, so applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the injured area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Step 3: Avoid Any Further Damage

Sometimes the sharp or jagged edges of a chipped tooth can cut your tongue or the inside of your cheek. To protect the area, you can place dental wax or even a piece of sugar-free gum over the edge of the tooth to prevent further injury while you wait for emergency dental care in Gladstone. Avoid chewing on the side of the chipped tooth. Stick to soft foods and avoid extreme temperatures that could trigger pain or sensitivity.

Step 4: Pain Relievers Can Help

If you’re experiencing discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide temporary relief. Just be sure to follow dosage instructions and avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum, as it can cause irritation.

Step 5: Try to Save the Tooth Fragment

If you can find the chipped piece of your tooth, place it in a small container of milk or saliva. In some cases, your dentist may be able to bond the fragment back in place. Even if not, bringing it along can help your emergency dentist in Gladstone determine the best repair method.

Step 6: Trust Your Smile with the Best Dental Care Near Gladstone

We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful, which is why we’re committed to providing fast, compassionate care when you need it most. As a trusted general dentist in Southeast Portland, we’re equipped to handle everything from chipped teeth to more complex emergencies. With full-service dental care all under one roof, you can count on us for comprehensive, reliable treatment.

At Mosley Dental, we’re proud to be a leading provider of family dental care in the Gladstone community and are always here to support your smile, no matter the situation.

Have a Dental Emergency?

We’re here to help. Call our office today at 503-655-4111 or make an appointment online. Dr. Mosley is available for appointments outside of our regular business hours upon request. Your health, comfort and smile are our top priorities—every step of the way.