A chipped tooth typically occurs during an unexpected moment. As a result, many are not prepared for it and do not know what to do after it occurs. Whether you or someone you know has chipped a tooth and needs advice or you want to know what to expect if it should happen to you, you can find out what you need to know in this guide.
It is essential to seek prompt treatment after a chipped tooth to prevent more severe oral health concerns from developing. Every person who suffers a chipped tooth has a unique experience, but understanding what a chipped tooth means and what the risks are if left untreated can be helpful.
A chipped tooth is a type of dental trauma in which a part of the tooth is knocked or chipped off the tooth. The level of severity can vary from minor damage that is hard to notice to a more severe chip that extends toward the root of the tooth. The more severe the chip, the higher the risk of more severe oral health complications developing.
Avoiding dental treatments can lead to oral health complications such as:
Regardless of the severity of the initial symptoms, it is encouraged to visit the dentist after tooth damage occurs. Otherwise, gum and teeth concerns may develop, and a tooth infection could develop, leading to a need for more invasive and expensive treatment.
Often, the earlier that a dentist can treat a chipped tooth, the less invasive the treatment is. Initially, the dentist will treat the initial symptoms, such as gum swelling and bleeding, pain and tooth sensitivity.
They can also treat the chip directly on the first visit as well. The most common treatment options for a chipped tooth include a dental veneer, composite bonding and a dental crown. One may be preferable to another, depending on the location and severity of the chip. For example, a minor chip to a front tooth can be repaired more affordably with dental bonding, whereas severe damage to a molar likely requires a dental crown.
Prevention is the ultimate goal. Although accidents sometimes occur, people can reduce their risk of a chipped tooth by wearing a mouthguard while having bruxism, playing sport or being around construction zones and dangerous scenarios that may result in a blow to the face.
Our dental team has experience treating chipped teeth. If you have a chipped tooth and need prompt treatment to prevent worsening symptoms, then give us a call today to schedule a visit for chipped tooth restoration.
Request an appointment here: http://smilewellsouthbay.com or call SmileWell Family Dentistry & Periodontics at (310) 904-6375 for an appointment in our Torrance office.
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