You’re having a great day and everything’s going smoothly when it happens: You chipped your tooth. Now what?
We’re here for more than cleanings and cavities. Moore Family Dental can help with all of your dental needs, which means we’re also here for things like chipped teeth and other unexpected problems. If you chip your tooth, contact us immediately (by phone: 716.835.1670 or via e-mail) so we can see you as soon as possible. Don’t delay calling us; the problem can worsen over time, so it’s important to let us address it right away.
There are two main options for a chipped tooth. One is bonding, which is a simple and painless procedure that involves using composite resin to restore the appearance and functionality of the tooth. This process generally takes place during a single appointment. After we smooth the chipped part of the tooth, we apply a special liquid or gel material, then follow up with the bonding agent. These steps are necessary before we use the composite resin. The result looks like your own tooth, and it will function as well as the rest of your teeth. You can expect your composite resin tooth to last many years; eventually you will need a new restoration. We’ll be here for that, too.
A porcelain veneer is the second common solution for a chipped tooth. Like bonding, it restores your tooth’s natural appearance and functionality. The porcelain veneer is placed over your own tooth; like bonding, it begins with smoothing and shaping the tooth. The next step is to take an impression of your tooth, so we can create your veneer. It’s done this way so the veneer will fit perfectly and look like one of your own teeth. After we take the impression, we’ll place a temporary restoration on the tooth. This will allow you to function comfortably until your new veneer is ready.
We’ll schedule a second appointment to apply the veneer. When the process is done, your teeth will function as well as ever, and you’ll have your old smile back. Follow our directions about taking care of your veneer; if you do, it will be functional and beautiful for many years.
Although accidents can happen anytime, certain things increase the likelihood of a chipped tooth or other dental injury.
- Sports without a mouth guard – err on the side of caution and wear a mouth guard when playing sports that could result in injury.
- Chewing on hard foods – if you chew on ice cubes, cough drops, or other hard items, you may be more prone to a chipped tooth.
- Chewing on non-food items – many people absentmindedly chew on pens, keys, fingernails, toothpicks, or other objects, but you should avoid this temptation. If it’s not food, don’t put it in your mouth.
- Piercing in the mouth or on the lips – if you have a piercing anywhere around your teeth, your teeth can be chipped by the repeated impact of the piercing.
A chipped tooth can happen to anybody. We hope it doesn’t happen to you, but we’re ready to help if it does.