6 Best Things You Can Do to Deal with a Chipped Tooth

It's not uncommon to chip a tooth, and it can happen for a variety of reasons. Maybe you were eating something hard and bit down wrong, or you were playing a sport and took a hit to the mouth. Whatever the reason, it's important to know what your options are for dealing with a chipped tooth.

There are a few things you can do to deal with a chipped tooth, and we're going to go over all of them.

1. Assess the Extent of the Damage

If the chip is small and does not affect the function or appearance of your tooth, then you may not need to do anything. The chip will eventually wear down and become less noticeable.

However, if the chip is large or if it affects the way your tooth looks or works, then you will need to consider some form of treatment.

2. Smooth Teeth with a File

If you have a small chip, your dentist may be able to simply smooth it out with a file. This is usually not a permanent solution, but it can help to protect the tooth from further damage and to make it more comfortable to eat and drink.

3. Treat with Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is one option that can be used to repair chipped teeth. This treatment applies a tooth-colored resin to the damaged tooth and then hardens it with a special light. Bonding can be used to repair small chips and cracks, and it is typically a less expensive option than other treatments.

However, the bonding material is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel, so it may not be the best choice for large chips or cracks.

4. Treat with Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are another option that can be used to repair chipped teeth. Veneers are thin, porcelain shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth. They can be used to repair small to medium-sized chips and cracks, and they can also be used to change the color or shape of your teeth.

Veneers are more expensive than bonding but are also more durable and longer lasting.

5. Treat with Dental Crowns

If you have a large chip or crack, your dentist may recommend dental crowns. Crowns are caps that are placed over the damaged tooth. They can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, metal, or ceramic.

Crowns are more expensive than bonding and veneers, but they are also more durable and long-lasting.

6. Consider Tooth Extraction

If the chip is large or affects the function or appearance of your tooth, consider having the tooth extracted. This is usually a last resort, but it may be the best option if the tooth is severely damaged or you cannot afford to repair it.

Conclusion

If you have a chipped tooth, it is important to seek dental care as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Depending on the severity of the chip, your dentist may be able to repair it with a bonding agent or veneer. If the damage is more extensive, you may need a crown or resort to tooth extraction.

In any case, it is important to have a chipped tooth evaluated and treated by a professional to avoid further damage and maintain your oral health.

Looking for the best dentist in Madison Heights? You can find them in Dental House MI. We provide emergency dental care for patients of all ages. Whether you have a toothache, chipped tooth, or lost tooth, we can help! We also offer a variety of cosmetic dental services to help you achieve the perfect smile. Call us today to schedule an appointment!