A chipped tooth occurs when a small piece of tooth enamel breaks off, often due to biting down on hard objects like ice or candy, or from dental trauma such as a fall or impact. It is a common dental injury that can range from a minor cosmetic issue to a significant structural problem. Older fillings that have weakened the tooth structure can also contribute to chipping.
Understanding the Severity of a Chipped Tooth
The severity of a chipped tooth depends on which of the tooth’s layers are affected. The outermost layer is the enamel, a hard, protective surface. A chip limited to the enamel may cause minimal to no pain and might primarily be a cosmetic concern.
Beneath the enamel lies the dentin, a softer, yellowish layer that contains microscopic tubules leading to the tooth’s pulp. When a chip extends into the dentin, it can expose these tubules, leading to increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet stimuli. This indicates a more significant chip.
The innermost part of the tooth is the pulp, containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. If a chip exposes the pulp, it can cause intense pain and represents a dental emergency due to exposed nerve endings and potential bacterial contamination. Immediate professional attention is typically required for chips involving the pulp.
Risks of Not Treating a Chipped Tooth
Delaying treatment for a chipped tooth can lead to a progression of dental problems. A minor chip, even if initially painless, can develop sharp edges that irritate or cut the tongue, lips, or inner cheek. This irritation can cause discomfort and oral sores.
The exposed dentin or pulp layers become vulnerable to bacterial invasion. Bacteria can enter the tooth, leading to infection within the pulp chamber and a painful abscess. An untreated infection can spread to the jawbone or other parts of the body, causing systemic health issues.
A chipped tooth is structurally weakened and more susceptible to further fracture. A small chip can escalate into a larger break, potentially splitting the tooth down to the gum line. If the pulp becomes infected or necrotic, root canal therapy or extraction may be necessary to alleviate pain and prevent infection spread.
Immediate Steps and Dentist Visit Urgency
When a tooth chips, rinsing the mouth with warm water can help clean the area and alleviate some discomfort. Applying a cold compress to the cheek can help reduce swelling. If there is bleeding, gently biting down on a piece of gauze can help control it.
For sharp edges, sugar-free chewing gum or dental wax can be placed over the chipped area as a temporary barrier. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain until a dentist can be seen. It is important to avoid chewing on the chipped tooth.
The urgency of a dentist visit depends on the chip’s severity. If there is severe pain, visible pulp exposure, or significant bleeding, immediate emergency dental care is necessary. Chips causing moderate sensitivity or irritation should be addressed within a day or two. Small, painless enamel chips are less urgent but still warrant a dental check-up to prevent future complications.
Professional Solutions for Chipped Teeth
Dental professionals offer various treatments for chipped teeth, with the choice depending on the extent of the damage. For small chips, especially those affecting only the enamel, dental bonding is a common solution. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to the chipped area, shaped and polished to match the natural tooth.
For a front tooth with a significant chip or discoloration, a dental veneer might be recommended. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells, typically porcelain or composite resin, bonded to the front surface of the tooth to improve appearance and protect the underlying structure. This option provides a durable, aesthetically pleasing result.
For larger chips that compromise a substantial portion of the tooth or weaken its structure, a dental crown may be necessary. A crown is a custom-made cap that completely covers the damaged tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. If the chip has exposed the tooth’s pulp and it has become infected, root canal therapy removes the infected tissue and saves the tooth. In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be the last resort.