A chipped tooth can be a painful and frustrating experience for anyone. This type of dental injury occurs when a small piece of the tooth breaks off, leaving the tooth with a jagged or uneven edge. Chipped teeth can happen due to a variety of reasons, including accidental trauma, biting down on hard objects, and even tooth decay. If you suspect that you have a chipped tooth, You can definitely go to a professional dentist of Dental Implants San Diego as soon as possible.
Causes of Chipped Teeth
Chipped teeth can be caused by a variety of factors, including injury, tooth decay, or tooth grinding. Dental trauma to the mouth, such as a fall or sports injury, can result in a chipped tooth. Additionally, biting down on hard objects or eating foods that are too hard can also cause a chip. Tooth decay can also weaken the tooth structure, making it more susceptible to chipping.
Symptoms of a Chipped Tooth
Your dentist will be able to examine the tooth and determine the best course of treatment. In some cases, a chipped tooth can be smoothed and polished by the dentist. However, if the chip is severe or affects the tooth’s structure, a filling or crown may be necessary.
The symptoms of a chipped tooth can vary depending on the size and location of the chip. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain or sensitivity when biting or chewing
- A rough or jagged edge on the tooth
- Visible chips or cracks on the tooth
- Swelling or bleeding in the area of the chip
Treatment Options Available
Treatment options for a chipped tooth will depend on the size and location of the chip, as well as the overall health of the tooth. Some common treatment options include:
- Bonding: If the chip is small and located on the front side of the tooth, bonding may be a suitable option to consider. During this procedure, a tooth-coloured resin is applied to the chipped area and then hardened with a piece of special light equipment. The resin is then shaped and polished to match the surrounding tooth.
- Filling: If the chip is caused by decay, a filling may be used to repair the tooth. This procedure involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth and filling the area with a tooth-coloured material.
- Crown: If the chip is large or located on the biting surface of the tooth, a crown may be necessary to protect the remaining tooth structure. During this procedure, the damaged portion of the tooth is removed, and a custom-made crown is placed over the remaining tooth.
- Root Canal: If the chip has reached the pulp chamber of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth. This procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp and filling the chamber with a special material.
- Extraction: In some cases, a chipped tooth may be so severely damaged that it cannot be saved. In this case, the tooth may need to be extracted.
To prevent chipped teeth, it is important to practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.
Additionally, you should avoid biting down on hard objects and eating foods that are too hard. If you grind your teeth, your dentist may recommend a mouth guard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
If you have a chipped tooth, you can check out and have a word with Professional Dental experts at San Diego Smile Center as soon as possible. With the right treatment, they can restore your tooth and get back to smiling with confidence.