What Happens to Tooth Enamel with a Chipped Tooth?

Do you have a chipped tooth? Continue reading to find out what happens to your enamel when a tooth becomes chipped, as well as how it can be treated. The enamel, which is the hard outer layer of your teeth, is considered one of the most complex parts of the body. It is, however, not invincible. Teeth may chip as a result of chewing on hard things such as ice or hard sweets, accidents involving falls or automobiles, taking part in contact sports without wearing a mouthguard, or teeth grinding during sleep.

Treating a chipped tooth

Weak teeth are more prone to chip than solid teeth. A tooth's strength may be weakened by various factors, including tooth decay, large fillings, acid-producing meals, digestive disorders such as acid reflux and heartburn, excess sugar intake, and aging.

A visual examination of the mouth can help the dentist diagnose a chipped tooth. They will also consider the patient's symptoms and inquire about any incidents contributing to the chipping.

The location, severity, and symptoms of a chipped tooth all influence how it is treated. It is not a medical emergency unless it is causing extreme discomfort and interferes with eating and sleeping. Nonetheless, patients should see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent infection or additional tooth damage. The tooth may typically be smoothed and polished to remove a small chip.

Reattachment

If the broken tooth piece is still available, keep it wet by placing it in a glass of milk. Calcium will aid in its survival. If milk is not available, one can tuck it in the mouth and avoid swallowing it. Book an appointment with a dentist right away as they may be able to reattach the piece to the tooth.

Bonding

For this process, the dentist will apply composite resin or porcelain over the tooth surface. The substance is hardened and dried using ultraviolet light. After curing, the material is shaped again until it fits the tooth. Composite bonding can last up to 10 years.

Porcelain veneers

The dentist will smooth away part of the tooth's enamel to create space for the veneer before placing it. They usually remove less than a millimeter. To manufacture the veneer, the dentist will imprint the tooth and send it to a lab. A temporary veneer may be applied during the fabrication process. The dentist will attach the permanent veneer to the tooth once it is ready.

Onlays

A minor tooth chip can be fixed with a dental onlay, often used on molars' surfaces. Usually, the dentist will mold the tooth and send it to a dental lab that will fabricate the onlay. They will fit the onlay to the tooth and then cement it in place after production. If the tooth is severely damaged, the dentist may suggest a complete dental crown.

Do you have a chipped tooth?

A chipped tooth leaves the enamel vulnerable and the tooth open to the risk of infections and further deterioration. Visit a dentist as soon as possible after chipping a tooth to discuss restoration options.

Request an appointment here: https://santarosaendodontics.com or call Santa Rosa Endodontics at (707) 409-1177 for an appointment in our Ukiah office.

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