How Do Dentists Repair A Chipped Tooth?

If you have a chipped tooth, you’re probably wondering what treatment options are available to you. Fortunately, there are several treatments that can be used to repair a chipped tooth. We’ll discuss the different treatments that can be used and also share the pros and cons of each treatment option.

Filling

Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, infection, or trauma. They can be made amalgam (a mixture of metals), composite resin, gold, and porcelain.

A dental filling can restore the function and appearance of a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma. It can also protect the tooth from further damage.

This solution, however, may not be the best option for repairing a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma. It may not be strong enough to withstand the pressure exerted by chewing food, which could lead to further damage to the tooth. It may also cause the tooth to become more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.

Bonding

Dental bonding is often used to repair chipped teeth, as it can provide a fast and affordable way to restore your smile. Bonding can usually be completed in one office visit and does not require extensive preparation like some other dental treatments. In addition, bonding can be used to correct small cosmetic issues like gaps between teeth or uneven tooth size.

However, there are a few downsides to dental bonding that you should be aware of before making a decision. First, bonding made of composite materials is not as strong as natural teeth and may need to be replaced more often. In addition, the bonding materials used can sometimes discolor over time, which may not be ideal if you are looking for a long-term solution. Finally, dental bonding is not usually covered by insurance, so you will need to pay out of pocket for the procedure.

Crowns

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that’s placed over a tooth to restore its shape and size, strengthen it, and improve its appearance. Crowns are typically used to cover teeth that are damaged or discolored, to hold a dental bridge in place, or to cover a dental implant.

The pros are that a dental crown can repair the damage done to the tooth and protect it from further damage. The main downside of getting a dental crown is that it can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance. Additionally, there is some risk involved with getting a dental crown, as there is with any type of dental surgery. Overall, however, the pros of getting a dental crown typically outweigh the cons.

Veneers

Dental veneers are ultra-thin, custom-made shells that bond directly to the front surfaces of your teeth. They are used to improve the aesthetics of your smile and can be used to fix issues such as chipped, stained, or misaligned teeth. Veneers are made from either porcelain or composite resin material and can be color matched to your natural tooth color for a seamless look.

One of the benefits of dental veneers is that they can be used to fix a tooth that has been chipped. Dental veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. They can be used to cover up chips, cracks, and discoloration.

One downside of dental veneers is that they require some preparation of the teeth. The teeth need to be filed down slightly so that the veneers will fit properly. This can sometimes lead to sensitivity issues with the teeth.

Implants

Dental implants are actually a great option for repairing a chipped tooth. They are made of titanium, which is biocompatible and will fuse with the jawbone over time. This creates a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth to be attached.

There are a few pros and cons to dental implants for patients with chipped teeth. On the plus side, dental implants can provide a very strong and stable replacement for a chipped tooth. Additionally, because dental implants are placed directly into the jawbone, they can help to preserve healthy bone tissue.

On the downside, however, dental implants can be quite expensive. Additionally, the surgery required to place dental implants is fairly invasive and may not be suitable for all patients. Overall, dental implants can be a great option for patients with missing or damaged teeth. However, it is important to discuss all of your options with your dentist before making any decisions.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is a dental procedure used to treat a tooth that has been damaged by decay or infection. During root canal therapy, the pulp (nerve and blood vessels) of the tooth is removed, and the inside of the tooth is disinfected. The root canals are then filled with a sealant to prevent further infection. Root canal therapy is usually recommended when other treatments, such as fillings or crowns, are not an option.

The main pro of root canal therapy is that it can save the tooth. If the chip is small, your dentist may be able to fix it without having to do a root canal. However, if the chip is large or if there is damage to the pulp inside the tooth, a root canal will likely be needed.

The main con of root canal therapy is that it is an invasive procedure. During a root canal, your dentist will remove the damaged pulp from inside the tooth and then clean and seal the space. This can be a bit uncomfortable, but most people feel better after they have had the procedure.

Another con of root canal therapy is that it can be expensive. Depending on the severity of the damage to your tooth, you may need to pay for the procedure out of pocket. However, many dental insurance plans will cover at least a portion of the cost.

Dental Sealants

Dental sealants are for chipped tooth prevention. By bonding evenly to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth, which are often grooved or pitted, sealants act as a barrier, protecting enamel from the bacteria that cause cavities. They’re usually clear or white. Sealants can last for several years before needing to be replaced.

The pros of dental sealants for chipped teeth are that they can help protect the tooth from bacteria and plaque build-up, which can lead to infection and cavities. They also can help prevent further damage to the tooth.

The cons of dental sealants for chipped teeth are that they may not be effective in all cases, and they may occasionally cause gum irritation. Sealants can also be difficult to remove if there is a need to do so.

 

If you chip a tooth, it is important to take action as soon as possible. A chipped tooth can lead to further damage and even loss of the tooth if left untreated. Dentists have a variety of ways to repair a chipped tooth, depending on the severity of the chip. In most cases, a dentist will be able to fix a chipped tooth in one visit. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort from your chipped tooth, please call Keels Family & Cosmetic Dentistry right away for an appointment. We would be happy to help you get your smile back on track!