How to Fix a Chipped Tooth

March 04, 2022, Robert Chang DDS Pasadena Dental Doc

Waiting any longer will do no good as your tooth can get even more damaged. It can also become infected, leading to possible tooth loss and other serious health risks.
Accidents happen, but knowing what you need to do if things go wrong is crucial. So be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist and get the chip examined. The good news is that your dentist can fix a chipped tooth with various options. Let’s discuss what to do when you break your tooth and each treatment option.

What to do when you chip your tooth

When you have a chipped tooth, make sure to see your dentist right away. In the meantime, here are some home remedies that can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever
Rinse your mouth with a mouthwash
Apply an ice pack near the affected area if the pain persists
If you chipped your tooth due to a severely hurtful incident and experienced extreme bleeding and pain, visit your local emergency room at your earliest.

1. Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is the solution of the smallest and simplest chip in teeth. The procedure consists of applying a tooth-colored resin material over the chipped tooth to create a mold. The dentist will then shape the material to look exactly similar to part of the tooth. After that, they will apply a special light to harden the material. This procedure is simple, cheap, and looks natural.

2. Veneers

Veneers are likely a better option if the chip is slightly bigger. You can fix minor chips with dental bonding, but veneers are porcelain covers mounted on your tooth. They are reasonably priced if it’s only one chipped tooth. If price is your concern, you may look for another option for fixing several chipped teeth. That being said, veneers are longer-lasting than dental bonding, and with proper care, they should last for more than a decade or two.

3. Crowns

Crowns are very similar to veneers as both are typically made up of porcelain. While veneers are placed over the front of your chipped tooth, crowns completely surround your tooth. Crowns can be an excellent treatment option if the chip is significant and you’ve lost much of the tooth. There are various types of crowns. Ask your dentist about their types so you can make an informed decision.

4. Dental Implants

The dental implant is an excellent treatment option for the most severe cracks, and very little of your tooth remains intact. If this is the case for you, your dentist may remove the tooth and let it heal before placing the implant. Once it is fully healed, your dentist will insert a permanent metal post into your gum line, followed by an artificial tooth that looks and works exactly like your natural tooth. This procedure is expensive and time-consuming. However, it provides a permanent solution to your chipped tooth problem.

Conclusion

Each chipped tooth case is unique. That’s why your dentist requires a proper exam before you decide the best option. Whichever option you choose after being informed and examined, it’s important to maintain proper oral care to keep your repaired tooth healthy and long-lasting. If you suffer from a chipped tooth, please contact the Houston dentist at Champions Dental. We believe a healthy, beautiful smile goes together with overall health and confidence.

Comments