One of the most common dental concerns and injuries we see is a chipped tooth. It is not a dental emergency unless it exposes the inside of the tooth and causes great pain. However, you should never ignore a chip in your tooth either. We suggest that you contact your local Greeley, CO, dentist as soon as possible to have your dentist look at it. Even the smallest chip in your tooth can lead to further damage. It can weaken your tooth and cause it break even more. Also, it may allow bacteria to enter in inner most part of the tooth. This can cause a very painful infection.
Dr. Joseph Thompson is a Greeley, CO dentist that offers many types of treatment for chipped teeth. After a thorough exam, he will recommend the appropriate treatment for your chipped tooth.
Treatment for a Chipped Tooth in Greeley, CO
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is the first treatment your dentist will try for a minor chipped tooth. This is because it is easy and affordable. It involves using a composite resin material that will match your tooth. Your dentist will apply it directly onto the tooth and then mold and smooth it into shape. Then they will harden the resin by using a UV light. Dental bonding is not permanent and you will need to take good care of your teeth in order for it to last long.
Porcelain Veneers
A porcelain veneer is a very thin casing that your dentist will bond to the front and side of a tooth to hide broken parts of a tooth. It is often used to treat teeth with chips and other kinds of damage. The dental veneer is custom made from impressions of your tooth in a dental lab. We can even match the color of it to blend in with the rest of your teeth.
Dental Crown
A large chip, especially to a molar, may require a dental crown. Capping the tooth is likely the best treatment when a large portion of the tooth suffers damage. A tooth crown will cover the entire tooth protecting it from more damage and allowing it to be strong enough to function again. The dental crown process requires two visits to our Greeley, CO dental office.
Root Canals
While root canal therapy is not a typical treatment for a chipped tooth, it is sometimes necessary. Patients who have a severe chip in their tooth or fail to seek treatment for their chipped tooth may need a root canal. A severe chip can lead to damage to the inside tissue of the tooth. Failing to seek treatment allows bacteria to enter the tooth and cause an infection. In both of these instances, your dentist will need to remove the damaged or diseased tissue with root canal therapy.
How to Prevent a Chipped Tooth
Preventing a chipped tooth is easier than you think. While you cannot eliminate all possibilities, you can surely lower your risk of it happening. People chip their teeth all the time during sporting events and games. We offer custom mouthguards to protect your teeth and gums during sports. A custom mouth piece from a dentist is better than a store bought one because it is made of thicker and strong material. This will better protect your teeth and prevent chips.
Another common cause for chips in your teeth is teeth grinding. This occurs mostly during the night when you are sleeping. You may not even know you are grinding them until your dentist points out your chipped teeth. We offer night guards that you wear at night while you sleep to protect your teeth. This a conservative way to protect your teeth from chips, cracks, and damage.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Chipped Tooth
What causes a tooth to chip?
A tooth can chip if you bite down on hard foods or objects, like ice or candy. Sports injuries, falls or even using your teeth to open things can also cause chips. Teeth may be weaker if there is decay, which makes chipping more likely. Grinding your teeth at night can also wear down and chip your teeth over time.
Is a chipped tooth a dental emergency?
A chipped tooth is not always a dental emergency, but you should still have your dentist look at it soon. If you only lost a small part and don’t have pain, you can wait a little before seeing the dentist. But, if the chip is big, the tooth hurts, or you see blood, call your dentist right away. Chips can let germs in and cause more damage, so fixing it quickly helps keep your smile healthy. Save any broken pieces and keep your mouth clean.
Does a chipped tooth hurt?
A chipped tooth can hurt, but not always. If the chip is small, you might not feel any pain. But if the chip is deep, it can hurt, especially when you eat or drink hot or cold things. The pain might be sharp or come and go. Sometimes, you only feel pain if the chip is close to a nerve.
Can a chipped tooth fix itself?
A chipped tooth cannot fix itself. Unlike bones, teeth do not heal or grow back if they get hurt. The hard outside layer of a tooth, called enamel, will not grow back once it is chipped. If you chip your tooth, seeking treatment from your dentist is the only way to fix the tooth. Dr. Thompson offers several treatments to repair the tooth. Getting help soon will stop more damage and keep your teeth healthy.
Can a chipped tooth lead to other dental problems?
Yes, a chipped tooth can lead to other dental problems if you do not get it fixed. The chip can make your tooth weaker and more likely to break. A broken tooth can also make it easier for germs to get into your tooth, which can cause pain or even an infection. Sometimes, a chipped tooth can hurt your gums or tongue. Without treatment, you are at risk of long-term damage to your oral and overall health.
If I have a chipped tooth, do I have to have it fixed?
If you have a chipped tooth, seeing a dentist is a good idea, even if it doesn’t hurt. Dr. Thompson will assess your tooth and determine if the break is small or could worsen. Sometimes, small chips simply require a minor treatment. However, bigger chips can lead to pain, infection, and further damage. By fixing the tooth, you lower your risk of further damage and keep the tooth strong and healthy.