A chipped tooth occurs when a piece of the tooth’s outer protective layer, the enamel, breaks off. This dental injury can range from a minor cosmetic concern to more significant damage that exposes the sensitive inner layers of the tooth. While enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, it is not indestructible and can fracture due to various factors.
Immediate Actions for a Chipped Tooth
If a tooth chips, rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the area. If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad until it stops. To reduce swelling and pain, hold a cold compress against the outside of the cheek or lip near the affected area.
Sharp edges of the chipped tooth can irritate the tongue or inner cheek. Cover these rough areas with dental wax, available at most pharmacies, or a piece of sugar-free chewing gum for temporary protection. If the chipped piece of tooth is found, save it and bring it to the dentist, ideally stored in milk or the individual’s saliva, as reattachment may sometimes be possible. Contact a dental professional as soon as possible for proper assessment and treatment.
Professional Dental Repair Methods
Dental professionals offer several methods to repair chipped teeth. The choice of method depends on the chip’s size, location, and the extent of damage to the inner tooth structures. Minor chips, especially those affecting only the enamel, can often be addressed with simple procedures, while more significant damage may require extensive restorative work.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a common procedure for repairing minor chips or cracks. It involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin material directly to the tooth’s surface. The dentist prepares the tooth by lightly etching its surface to help the resin adhere securely, then applies a bonding agent. The resin is molded and smoothed to match the tooth’s natural shape, then hardened with a special curing light. The bonded area is then polished for a seamless finish, and the procedure is typically completed in a single visit.
Dental Veneers
For more visible chips, particularly on front teeth, dental veneers can provide a significant cosmetic improvement. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells, usually crafted from porcelain or composite resin, that are bonded to the front surface of the tooth. Porcelain veneers require a small amount of enamel removal and are fabricated in a dental laboratory over several weeks. Composite resin veneers can often be applied in a single visit by layering and shaping the material directly on the tooth. Veneers offer a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for chips, discoloration, and minor misalignments.
Dental Crowns
When a chipped tooth has extensive damage, a dental crown may be recommended. A crown, or cap, covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. The procedure involves preparing the tooth by removing some enamel, then taking impressions for fabrication. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination like porcelain-fused-to-metal. While temporary crowns are placed during fabrication, the permanent crown is later cemented onto the tooth.
Root Canal Therapy and Crown
If a chip is deep enough to expose the tooth’s pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, root canal therapy becomes necessary. This can lead to infection, sensitivity, and pain. During a root canal, the damaged or infected pulp tissue is removed, and the canals are then cleaned, shaped, and filled with a biocompatible material. Following root canal therapy, the treated tooth often becomes more brittle. Therefore, a dental crown is typically placed over the tooth to protect it from fracture and restore its function and appearance.
Extraction
In severe cases where a tooth is extensively damaged beyond repair by chipping, extraction may be the only viable option. This is a last resort when the tooth cannot be saved, often due to a fracture extending deep below the gum line or severe infection. Once extracted, replacement options such as dental implants or bridges are typically discussed to restore chewing function and maintain the alignment of surrounding teeth.
Protecting Your Teeth from Future Chips
Preventing future tooth chips involves safeguarding dental enamel from undue stress and trauma. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, hard candies, or non-food items such as pen caps.
For individuals participating in sports or those who grind their teeth at night (bruxism), wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard provides a protective barrier. A mouthguard absorbs and distributes impact forces, preventing direct trauma during sports activities and cushioning the teeth against grinding forces. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing, contributes to strong tooth enamel. Consistent dental check-ups allow dentists to identify and address any weakening areas or habits that could predispose teeth to chipping.