How to Fix a Chipped Tooth and Restore Your Beautiful Smile
Dealing with a chipped tooth can be a distressing experience. Whether it’s caused by an accident, biting into something hard, or something else, a chipped tooth affects your smile and can lead to discomfort and potential oral health issues.
Fortunately, our Tukwila dentists at Benca Dentistry are well-trained and equipped to address this problem efficiently and effectively.
In this article, we’ll explore how to fix a chipped tooth and shed light on the techniques used by dentists to restore your smile and prevent further damage.
Understanding the severity of the chip
When answering ‘How does a dentist fix a chipped tooth,’ the first step is to assess the severity of the chip. Dentists categorize chips into different types: minor chips, moderate chips, and severe chips.
Minor chips usually involve a small portion of the tooth enamel, while moderate and severe chips may extend deeper into the tooth structure. By evaluating the extent of the damage, dentists can determine the most suitable treatment plan.
Dental bonding
One standard method dentists employ to fix minor to moderate chips is dental bonding. The dentist applies a tooth-colored composite resin to the affected area during this procedure.
The resin is shaped and molded to match the natural contours of your tooth, restoring its appearance and functionality. Dental bonding is a quick and cost-effective solution that can be completed in a single dentist visit.
Dental contouring
Dental contouring, also known as enamel shaping, is another option. This treatment is a precise and conservative method to correct minor imperfections, like a chipped tooth.
This non-invasive procedure involves gently removing a small amount of tooth enamel to reshape the damaged area, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
By skillfully sculpting and contouring the tooth, dentists can effectively smooth out rough edges, even out irregularities, and restore harmony to the smile.
Porcelain veneers
In cases where the chip is more extensive or affects the front teeth, dentists may recommend porcelain veneers. These thin, custom-made shells are crafted to cover the tooth’s front surface, hiding imperfections such as chips and cracks.
As we discuss how to fix a chipped tooth, it’s important to note that porcelain veneers restore the tooth’s appearance and provide strength and durability.
The process typically involves two visits to the dentist. The first is for an examination and making impressions, and the next is for bonding the fabricated veneer to the affected teeth.
Dental crowns
A dental crown may be the ideal solution for severe chips that have caused significant damage or weakened the tooth’s structure. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the entire visible portion of the damaged tooth.
The crown restores the tooth’s appearance and provides strength and protection. The dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any damaged portions and then place a custom-made crown over it, ensuring a secure and natural-looking restoration.
Root canal treatment
In some cases, the answer to ‘How does a dentist fix a chipped tooth’ is with a root canal. Sometimes, a chipped tooth may expose the tooth’s pulp, causing severe pain or sensitivity.
When the chip extends deep enough to reach the pulp, a root canal treatment may be necessary. During this procedure, the dentist removes the infected or damaged pulp, cleans the root canal, and seals it with a dental filling or crown.
Root canal treatment saves the tooth, alleviates pain, and prevents further complications.
If you find yourself with a chipped tooth, don’t panic! As you see, how to fix a chipped tooth consists of several options dentists can employ. Moreover, dentists are skilled professionals who can help restore your smile and oral health using their expertise, tools, and craftsmanship.
Remember to consult with our qualified dentist to evaluate your situation and receive personalized care. With the advancements in modern dentistry, how to fix a chipped tooth is now easier and more effective than ever before, allowing you to regain your confident smile.
Or:
- Call us at: 206-575-1173
- Email us at: info@bencadds.com
We’re a Tukwila, WA, dentist office with doors open to the surrounding areas of SeaTac, Renton, Burien, White Center, Des Moines, Kent, and Newcastle.
