How can a chipped tooth be repaired?

First off it is important to see your dentist right away after you chip a tooth. For a dentist there are many ways to repair a chipped tooth. Below are some of the most common methods. Depending on the type, location and damage to the tooth, your dentist may recommend a best option to address your chipped tooth. 

Some of the most common options are: 

• Dental bonding 
• Dental crown 
• Dental veneers 
• Dental implant
• Root canal therapy 

Below is a quick overview of each and why a certain option may be recommended over another for restoring a beautiful smile after a chip or damage to your tooth. 

Bonding

Bonding is a common repair method for small or less complicated broken or chipped teeth.  Bonding over a chipped tooth requires molding a composite material over both the chip and the healthy area of the tooth. Your dentist will first roughen up the remaining enamel of the damaged tooth so the composite will attach properly, then they will attach and shape the bond to create a natural looking cover over your chipped tooth. Then last, the bonding is set with a blue light to harden the material. With proper care, bonds can last for about ten years.

Dental Crown 

Typically, if the damage is more severe a crown may need to be utilized to restore your tooth’s appearance to its former glory. A crown is a cap that surrounds your tooth entirely. A crown can be used to address a wide range of dental issues such as cracked, chipped, decayed, deformed, or broken teeth. The crown covers over the part of the tooth that is visible above the gums, protecting it from further damage and acids made by bacteria. Crowns will typically last between 5 and 15 years. 

Dental Veneers

Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental procedure for not just chipped teeth but also to beautifully remedy misaligned, uneven, or worn-off teeth. Dental veneers are wafer-thin, natural tooth-colored shells that are custom made for the patient designed to cover the front surface of the teeth to repair the damage and show a radiant smile. 

Dental Implants

While dental implants are typically used to replace a missing tooth, sometimes it may be the best option for a broken one, typically when the tooth is too damaged to be restored with a root canal or dental crown. Extracting the tooth and replacing it with an implant may be recommended in that specific scenario.

Root Canal Therapy for the most severe chipped teeth

Sometimes a bad chip may extend beyond the enamel and into the root of the tooth in such a way that exposes the pulp of the tooth below. In this scenario a root canal procedure might be the best option. With exposed pulp it runs the risk of a serious infection. It is important in these cases for damaged or dead pulp to be removed before a crown or other visual repair device can be placed.

Once again, it is important to see your dentist quickly after you chip a tooth for the best outcome. Clove Dental has amazing dentists and oral surgeons to give you outstanding care at any of our 6 office locations. Schedule an appointment by clicking on the "Schedule Your Visit" icon at the top right hand side of this page.