What Should I Do if I Chip a Tooth?
What Should I Do if I Chip a Tooth?
Even with the best dental care, your teeth are not indestructible; serious trauma can result in damaged teeth leaving the person asking what should I do if I chip a tooth? Depending on the severity of the damage your dentist has several options. For the most part chipped and broken teeth are handled by dentists trained in reconstructive procedures. Cosmetic dentists are also trained to repair the structure and appearance of damaged teeth. The first thing to do if you chip a tooth is to try to recover the part of the tooth that has broken off and if possible, place it in ice to take with you to the dentist.
When you visit the dentist, one of the first things they will do is most likely take dental x-rays. You should also tell the dentist if you are experiencing any pain as a result of the injury that damaged your tooth. If the dental x-rays show no damage to the root of your tooth and you are not in any discomfort, the dentist has several options in repairing a chipped tooth. In cases where the tooth is only slightly damaged, some dentists may choose to simply use a file to even the edge of the tooth. However it is more common for the dentist to treat the tooth with a composite or porcelain veneer bonded directly on the tooth to give it a smooth, natural appearance.
On the other hand if the tooth is badly chipped or if you experience discomfort, the dentist may recommend a crown for the chipped tooth. This will serve as a cap that completely covers the tooth, protecting it and at the same time improving its appearance. The other option is for the dentist to use a filling on a badly chipped tooth much as they would repair a cavity.
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