Sure, it’s a bummer when your tooth becomes chipped. While it may not warrant an emergency trip to the dentist, it is important to let your dentist know right away. Simply put–a chipped tooth is a weakened tooth. Thus, when it comes to repairing your chipped tooth, don’t delay.
Many are surprised to learn that even the smallest chip in a tooth can impact their oral health. First, it’s important to understand that when a tooth becomes chipped, it is prone to develop additional cracks or chips. These are not always visible to the naked eye. Second, when the structure of the tooth is altered, the inner layer of dentin is exposed. Dentin is a softer, more vulnerable layer of a tooth. Minus the protective shield of the tooth’s enamel, dentin essentially absorbs bacteria, accelerating the process of decay. As this process continues, the tooth’s pulp and root are at risk.
How Will The Dentist Repair My Chipped Tooth?
Dentists use a variety of restorative and cosmetic procedures to repair broken or chipped teeth. The right treatment depends on the type of damage to your tooth. Dentists classify chipped teeth by types:
- Crazed Lines (shallow, tiny cracks)
- Fractured Cusp (a break in the tooth’s chewing surface)
- Cracked Tooth (a crack extending from the chewing surface to the root)
- Split Tooth (the result of a long-term cracked tooth which has distinct sections)
- Vertical Root Fracture (a crack extending from the root to the chewing surface)
To repair your broken or chipped tooth, the dentist may use the following:
- Dental Bonding: Dental putty is applied to a prepared tooth, then dried, shaped and polished to match the rest of the tooth.
- Veneers: Bonded to the front of a tooth, a veneer covers the entire tooth and is an attractive and realistic-looking cosmetic solution.
- Crowns: A common restorative procedure consisting of a “cap” placed over the chewing surface of the tooth.
- Root Canal: If decay has reached the pulp or root of a tooth, the decay must be cleaned out while the nerve is removed.
- Dental Implant: A crack or chip extending below the gum line means that the tooth cannot be preserved. Thus, a dental implant is an option to replace the natural tooth.
With extensive training in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, you can trust Dr. Leia Porcaro at Grateful Dental to examine and repair your chipped tooth. With a compassionate and conscientious approach, Dr. Porcaro will put you at ease. If you suspect that your tooth is chipped, don’t wait. Call Grateful Dental today.
