Teeth can chip for a variety of reasons, including biting down on hard surfaces, getting into an accident or having untreated cavities. Regardless of the cause, it is best to have the chipped tooth treated immediately to avoid any further damage. Depending on the size and location of the chip, there are several available solutions.
Here are the ways that your dentist may repair a chipped tooth:
Enamel Shaping
Enamel shaping is a quick and inexpensive method to correct slightly misaligned, oversized or rough teeth. It involves restructuring or removing a small amount of enamel (the outer layer of the tooth) without affecting the dental pulp (where the nerves are located). This makes the tooth smoother and more even. The procedure is quick, painless and can be done without anesthetic.
Bonding
Bonding is another easy way to repair chipped teeth, as well as improve the overall appearance of your smile. The dentist adds a small amount of enamel-coloured composite material to fill in small gaps, cracks or holes in the teeth. An ultraviolet light is used to instantly harden the material. When proper precautions are taken, a bonded tooth can last for up to 10 years. Proper care involves avoiding any type of food that can crack the composite material, such as hard candy.
Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, customized, enamel-coloured materials designed to permanently cover the full front surface of the teeth. Made from either porcelain or resin composite, veneers improve the colour, shape, size or length of the teeth. In terms of resisting stains and mimicking the look of natural teeth, porcelain veneers are often the more favorable option.
Crowns
If a larger part of the tooth has chipped, a crown may be the best option. Like veneers, they are custom-fitted to the teeth and made out of porcelain composite material. Crowns, however, shield the entire tooth as opposed to fitting over the tooth’s surface. A dental crown restores the tooth to its full function and aesthetic appearance. It also prevents further damage and infection of the tooth.
Root Canal
If your tooth has been substantially damaged, bacteria from the mouth can enter the pulp of the tooth. The subsequent infection may create a considerable amount of pain and discomfort. If not treated immediately, this may result in the loss of the tooth. A root canal involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning out the root canal, and sealing it.
Chipped teeth should always be assessed by a dental professional. Treatment will depend upon the severity of the damage.
The Springdale Dental Centre in Brampton, Ontario offers professional dental services to correct chipped or broken teeth. Call us today at (905) 458-1212 to schedule your consultation.
