Your Monthly Dental Tip

Tips on Cracked Teeth

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Happy Summer from your Cedarhurst Dentist Dr. Alina Bergan D.D.S. and staff!
To help keep your celebrations as joyful as possible, we've put together a few dental tips that will keep your smile as bright as the fireworks.
Ice, Candy Apples, Corn on the Cob, and Pretzels are common at summer BBQs. Try to avoid chewing on ice and if you must have a candy apple, slice the apple to make it easier to chew on. Use a knife to cut the corn off of the cob so you can enjoy the flavor without hurting your teeth. If the pretzels are a bit stale try dunking them in some water before you chow down. If you do chip your tooth, here are some tips to keep the pain down until you can visit the office after the holiday day.
If your tooth is broken, chipped, or fractured, you definitely need to see a dentist as soon as possible, as you risk damaging your tooth further, or worse becoming infected, which can lead to total tooth loss.
Make sure that you:
1. Rinse your mouth with some clean, warm saltwater.
2. Take some over-the-counter pain relief. Look for the bottle with acetaminophen as the active ingredient.
3. If you have to eat, try to avoid using the broken tooth, and stick to soft foods
4. Sometimes a broken or chipped tooth will leave a sharp edge, which you can cover with wax or plain chewing gum (sugarless).
5. Apply a cold pack to the cheek or lips over the broken tooth. This will help reduce swelling and relieve pain.

Dr. Alina Bergan is ready to help make sure your summer is memorable for the good times, not the bad, please call with any questions or concerns you may have. We can be reached at 800-223-0801 or make an appointment on the web: www.alinabergandds.com