A chipped tooth is a common dental injury. It could happen if you bite into hard food, have a mishap while you are playing sports, or take a hard fall. A minor chip may not be particularly painful, and you might even hope that it will get better on its own. Unfortunately, it will not. This blog post explains why it is important to seek prompt dental care for a chipped tooth.
The Importance of Professional Care for a Chipped Tooth
Even if a chipped tooth seems like a minor issue, it still deserves professional attention. Teeth are different from bones because they do not have the ability to rebuild lost structure on their own. Once the enamel breaks, the missing portion will not grow back, and the chip can leave the inner layers of the tooth more vulnerable to sensitivity, bacteria, and further damage.
Daily chewing pressure may cause the damaged area to worsen, especially if the chip has created a weak spot or a small crack. Bacteria may also collect around rough or exposed areas, increasing the risk of decay or infection. What starts as a minor cosmetic concern could eventually lead to pain, a larger fracture, or the need for extensive treatment.
Although you may be able to wait a few days to receive care for a chipped tooth, you should not unnecessarily delay a visit to your dentist. In the meantime, try not to bite with the tooth. If its rough edges bother you, try covering them with orthodontic wax or sugar-free chewing gum.
How Your Dentist Can Help
When you arrive for your appointment, your dentist will examine your tooth, determine how deep the damage goes, and recommend a treatment that protects your oral health. For a small chip, they might simply smooth the rough edge or use tooth-colored bonding to restore the tooth’s shape. If the chip is larger or affects a front tooth, a veneer may be recommended to improve both its appearance and function.
In more serious cases, a dental crown may be needed to cover and strengthen the tooth. If the damage reaches the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, root canal therapy may be necessary before the tooth receives any sort of restoration.
A chipped tooth will not repair itself, but timely treatment can help you avoid unnecessary discomfort and protect your smile. Do not hesitate to reach out to your dentist for advice about any type of dental injury!
Meet the Practice
At Northborough Dental Associates, our team is committed to providing efficient, compassionate care in a welcoming environment. We are often able to address emergency cases on a same-day basis. We also offer a wide range of services for chipped teeth, from dental bonding to veneers and beyond. To learn more about us or to request an appointment, contact our office at 508-571-0358.