When Your Child Chips a Tooth

A chipped tooth is one of the most common dental mishaps in childhood, whether from a fall, a sports bump, or biting something hard. It can look alarming, but most chips are very treatable. Here is what to do when your child chips a tooth.

First steps

Stay calm and comfort your child. Rinse their mouth gently with warm water to clean the area, and if you can find the broken piece, save it in milk or water and bring it along. If there is any bleeding, apply gentle pressure with clean gauze.

Ease discomfort

A cold compress on the outside of the cheek helps with any swelling or pain. If your child is uncomfortable, an age-appropriate pain reliever can help. Have them avoid chewing on that side and stick to soft foods until they are seen.

Protect the tooth

• If the chip left a sharp edge, cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect the lips and tongue
• Avoid very hot or cold foods that may cause sensitivity
• Keep the area clean with gentle brushing

See the dentist

Even a small chip should be evaluated. Your dentist can check whether the deeper layers or nerve are affected and smooth or repair the tooth. Minor chips are often fixed easily with smoothing or tooth-colored bonding, while larger ones may need a bit more.

Baby tooth or permanent tooth

A chip on a baby tooth still deserves a check to rule out problems, and a chip on a permanent tooth should be seen promptly to protect it long term. Either way, a quick visit gives you peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my child chips a tooth?

Comfort them, rinse with warm water, save any broken piece in milk or water, apply a cold compress for swelling, and see the dentist.

How are chipped teeth in children treated?

Minor chips are often smoothed or repaired with tooth-colored bonding, while larger ones may need more. Your dentist will check the tooth first.

Does a chipped baby tooth need treatment?

It should still be checked to rule out deeper damage, even though it is a baby tooth. A quick visit gives you peace of mind.

If your child has chipped a tooth, contact Peoria Dental and we will get them in to restore that little smile.