Chipped tooth: What should I do?

1
Symptom
A piece of tooth missing, a sharp edge that cuts the tongue, or a sudden rough spot. Pain on biting or with cold air means the inner layers may be involved.
2
Possible causes
Biting something hard (ice, bone, unpopped popcorn) · A fall or knock to the face · An old filling giving way · Night grinding weakening a tooth
3
What you can do
Rinse with warm water and save any fragments in milk · Cover a sharp edge with dental wax or sugar-free gum · Use a cold compress on the cheek if there is swelling · Chew on the other side
4
When to see a dentist
Promptly — the same day if it hurts, bleeds, or you can see a pink or yellow inner layer. A small enamel chip can wait a few days but still needs smoothing so it doesn't crack further. Don't use super glue.

References

Grounded in standard dental textbooks and professional guidance. These are general sources, not a substitute for an in-person exam.

Roberson TM, Heymann HO, Swift EJ. Sturdevant's Art and Science of Operative Dentistry.

This is general information written by a dentist, not personal medical advice. If you are in pain, swollen, or unsure, see a qualified dentist.