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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Ukiah, CA.
Root canal treatment can effectively save an infected or otherwise compromised tooth. However, there are cases in which root canal retreatment is necessary to address complications or reinfections that arise after an initial root canal. Every patient should know several things about root canal retreatment, its benefits, and how to prepare for the procedure.Root canal…
Chipped teeth are a common dental issue that can occur from accidents, sports injuries, or biting down on hard objects. While some chips may seem minor, they can lead to complications if left untreated. In certain cases, endodontic care may be necessary to save the tooth and prevent further damage. Knowing when to seek the…
Breaking a tooth can be a frightening time for anyone, and not knowing whether to seek emergency dental care for the broken tooth or wait for the regular office to open can add to the stress. The good news is that broken teeth are often resilient and can usually be restored to their normal function,…
Sedation dentistry helps patients stay calm, allowing periodontists to efficiently perform their work while ensuring their patient's comfort and safety. Many people suffer from severe dental anxiety. This fear can stop them from receiving the treatment they need and make their oral health suffer long-term, requiring more extensive treatment. Fortunately, there have been advancements in…
Chipped teeth are a common dental issue that can occur from accidents, sports injuries, or…
Keep in mind that an endodontist will work carefully and thoroughly to minimize these risks…
Sedation dentistry helps patients stay calm, allowing periodontists to efficiently perform their work while ensuring…
If the patient cannot find the pieces of the tooth or if they have been…
An endodontist is a dental specialist who treats problems inside the tooth with the dental…
When you have an infected or severely damaged tooth, a tooth extraction may seem the…
