A chipped tooth may seem minor, but it can actually lead to serious complications if it goes untreated. One's oral health can be at risk, as a chip in a tooth can result in excess food getting stuck, causing bacterial buildup. Additionally, a chipped tooth may have sharp edges that can put the soft tissues in the mouth at risk. Thankfully, general dentists have many recommendations that can be used to treat and repair a chipped tooth. Ready to learn more?
Outlined below are four common ways that a general dentist fixes a chipped tooth. When considering a repair, it can be helpful to review different options.
Dental bonding is one of the most popular ways that general dentists recommend for fixing a chipped tooth. The procedure is simple and only requires about an hour of the patient's time. During the appointment, the general dentist will etch the surface of the chipped tooth. Then, a composite resin material will be directly applied to the area where the chip is. Using a dental tool, the resin will be bonded to the tooth, thus covering the chip. The result is a natural-looking tooth, with no signs that a chip was ever present.
Another option for fixing a chipped tooth is to have a dental veneer placed. Veneers are a popular choice if the chipped tooth is severe. Unlike composite bonding, veneers are custom-made in a dental lab. They are made of porcelain, which is a strong, natural-colored material is known to be strong and aesthetically-pleasing. Veneers are extremely thin, natural-colored shells that go directly over the entire tooth, thus covering the chip. While they are a more expensive option, general dentists recommend them for a chipped tooth because they are durable and appear as a real tooth once placed.
Dental crowns are another solution that general dentists recommend for a chipped tooth. If the chipped tooth is in the back of the mouth, then a dental crown is a great option. General dentists recommend them only for molars because they completely cap the tooth. Crowns are a great option for a chipped tooth because they are offered in a variety of materials, such as porcelain, composite or metals.
In certain scenarios, a chipped tooth can be repaired through a type of dental filling. Often, general dentists recommend fillings for chips that are extremely minor. An indirect or direct filling may be used, depending on where the chip is located on the tooth. Dental fillings are a quick procedure that results in a natural-looking tooth, with no signs of the chip.
A chipped tooth can be repaired in a number of ways. Working with a general dentist is a great place to start, as they can provide an evaluation to determine which option is best. Reach out today to get started or to learn more!
Request an appointment here: https://www.missionvalleydentalarts.com or call Mission Valley Dental Arts at (619) 805-4248 for an appointment in our San Diego office.
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