What Should I Do About My Chipped Tooth?
Chipping a tooth is a very common problem that can happen to anyone of any age. And while a chipped tooth is not necessarily an emergency, it should be addressed by your dentist as soon as possible. A large chip can cause the nerve within the tooth to become exposed, which can be very painful. It can also lead to more severe damage to the enamel, as well as extreme tooth sensitivity and pain. Any fracture to the enamel also leaves teeth more susceptible to decay and infection.
There are a number of treatments available for patients who have chipped a tooth, depending on the severity of the chip. Your dentist will be able to suggest the best treatment for your individual case, so it is important to see your dentist as soon as you can. Left untreated, a small chip can quickly turn into a large break or fracture and could require much more extensive treatment.
What should I do about a chipped tooth?
There are a number of treatment options available for chipped teeth, depending on the severity of the damage, from simple sealants to dental crowns. Your dentist will be able to determine how best to treat your individual case to ensure the integrity of the affected tooth.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a hard, protective plastic coating applied to the biting surface of molars and premolars. They are typically applied to children’s molars to protect them from decay, but they can also be used to repair broken molars and keep them healthy, protecting them from cavity-causing bacteria.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is quick and relatively cheap in comparison to some other options. Bonding is a non-invasive restorative option to fix a broken tooth. It is only appropriate for small chips and breaks, and while the composite material used is very strong, it is not as strong as porcelain and therefore is not great for front teeth. Bonding is also more susceptible to staining and chipping than porcelain options.
Dental Crowns and Veneers
Porcelain crowns and veneers are the best way to restore severely damaged teeth, as long as the tooth is not deemed hopeless. The same process is used for each restoration, but while crowns fit over the entire tooth surface, veneers cover just the front and wrap around the edges to the back of the tooth. A crown is most often made from porcelain and covers the entire tooth above the gumline. Crowns are commonly used on the posterior teeth but may also be used on anterior teeth when necessary. Porcelain is very strong and durable and does not stain.
If you chip a tooth, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible, even if you are not experiencing any negative symptoms. Most dental offices reserve emergency time in their schedule every day, so you should be able to get in even if they are unable to repair the tooth. They will be able to apply a protective coating on the tooth so it does not become further damaged while you wait for a restoration appointment.