Broken or Chipped Tooth in Calgary: What to Do Before Seeing an Emergency Dentist

Introduction

Biting into a hard candy, taking a hit while playing sports, or even just chewing ice — accidents happen, and teeth can crack or chip when you least expect it. Sometimes the damage looks small but still exposes sensitive layers of the tooth. Other times, it may be painful and impossible to ignore.

In either case, a broken or chipped tooth should be taken seriously. At Inglewood Family Dental Emergency in Calgary, we see patients every week with dental fractures, and the good news is that most can be repaired quickly if treated in time.

When a Broken or Chipped Tooth Is an Emergency

Not every crack requires urgent care, but you should see an emergency dentist right away if:

• The tooth is painful or sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure.

• The chip is large enough to expose the inner dentin or pulp.

• A sharp edge is cutting your tongue or cheek.

• The tooth is visibly broken or loose.

If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to call us for an assessment.

Immediate Steps to Take at Home

1. Rinse Your Mouth

Clean the area gently with warm water to remove debris.

2. Control Any Bleeding

If bleeding occurs, apply gentle pressure with gauze.

3. Protect the Tooth

Cover sharp edges with orthodontic wax or sugarless gum to prevent cuts.

4. Manage Pain and Swelling

Take over-the-counter pain relievers and apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek.

5. Save Any Pieces

If a piece of your tooth breaks off, place it in milk and bring it to the dentist. In some cases, it can be reattached.

Treatment Options for Broken or Chipped Teeth

1. Bonding

For small chips, tooth-colored resin can be applied to restore shape and function.

2. Dental Veneers

For cosmetic concerns or front teeth, a thin porcelain shell can cover the damage.

3. Crowns

If a large portion of the tooth is missing, a crown provides full coverage and protection.

4. Root Canal

If the crack reaches the pulp, infection may develop. A root canal followed by a crown may be necessary.

5. Extraction

In severe cases, when the tooth cannot be saved, extraction and replacement (implant or bridge) may be recommended.

FAQs About Chipped or Broken Teeth

1. Can a chipped tooth heal on its own?

No. Enamel does not regenerate. Professional dental treatment is required to restore the tooth.

2. Is it safe to eat with a broken tooth?

Avoid chewing on the affected side. Sharp edges can cause cuts, and pressure may worsen the damage.

3. What if my child breaks a tooth?

Call an emergency dentist immediately. Even baby teeth may need treatment to prevent infection or damage to developing adult teeth.

Prevention Tips

• Don’t chew ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy.

• Always wear a mouthguard during sports.

• Avoid using teeth to open bottles or tear packages.

• See your dentist regularly to check for weak or decayed teeth that are more prone to breaking.

Why Prompt Care Matters

A small chip today could lead to a bigger problem tomorrow. Cracks can spread, exposing nerves and causing infection. By treating the issue early, you avoid unnecessary pain, expense, and possible tooth loss.

How Inglewood Family Dental Emergency Can Help

We provide:

• Same-day appointments for chipped or broken teeth

• On-site treatment including bonding, crowns, and root canals

• Extended hour to handle emergencies outside regular office times

• Gentle care for adults and children alike

Our goal is simple: to get you out of pain quickly and restore your smile with lasting results.

Conclusion

Breaking or chipping a tooth may feel stressful, but with the right steps and quick dental care, it doesn’t have to mean permanent damage.

➡️ Call Inglewood Family Dental Emergency in Calgary today for immediate treatment and peace of mind.

👨‍⚕️ About the Author
Dr. Arash Ravanbakhsh is a general dentist in Calgary and the owner of Inglewood Family Dental Emergency. With over 10 years of private practice experience and a teaching role at the University of Alberta School of Dentistry, he brings both clinical expertise and academic knowledge to every patient interaction.