I. Introduction
If you have a chipped tooth, you’re not alone. Many people suffer from chipped teeth, which can occur due to a variety of reasons, such as biting down on something hard or experiencing an injury to the face. Chipped teeth can affect not only your appearance but also your overall oral health. In this article, we’ll explore different ways to fix a chipped tooth, including DIY at-home remedies and professional solutions.
II. DIY at-home remedies
If you can’t make an appointment with a dentist right away, there are temporary fixes for your chipped tooth you can do at home. Two common methods of DIY treatment include:
Sugarless gum as a temporary fix
One of the easiest and quickest ways to temporarily fix a chipped tooth is by using sugarless gum. Simply take a small piece of gum and roll it into a ball. Place the gum over the chipped area and gently bite down. The chewing motion will help shape the gum to the tooth and provide a temporary solution.
Dental wax to cover the chipped area
Another option to consider is using dental wax to cover the chipped area. Dental wax is a soft, moldable substance that adheres to the teeth and acts as a barrier between the chip and the tongue or cheek. To use dental wax, take a small amount of the wax and roll it into a ball. Place it over the chipped area and mold it to fit the tooth. Note that it’s important to remove the wax before eating.
Remember to use caution when handling the chipped tooth, as it’s more vulnerable to further damage. If you experience any discomfort or sensitivity, contact a dentist as soon as possible.
III. Dental bonding
Dental bonding is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure and can be a good solution for a chipped tooth. It’s a process that involves bonding a tooth-colored composite resin to the tooth to fix any chips or gaps. The process is usually quick and doesn’t require anesthesia.
How dental bonding works to fix a chipped tooth
The dentist will first roughen the surface of the affected tooth and apply a conditioning liquid. Afterward, they will apply the composite resin and shape it to match the rest of the tooth. They’ll then use a special light to harden the resin and then polish it to a smooth finish. The result is a restored smile with a natural finish.
Procedure and what to expect
The dental bonding process typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. During the procedure, you may feel pressure, but it shouldn’t be painful. You may feel sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures after the procedure, but the sensation should improve within a few days.
Cost and possible drawbacks
The cost of dental bonding depends on the extent of the damage and the location of the tooth. It’s one of the most affordable cosmetic dental treatments, and payment plans may be available. However, dental bonding is not as durable as other options, such as veneers or crowns. The composite resin material is susceptible to staining, chipping, and wear over time and may need replacing after several years.
IV. Dental veneers
Dental veneers are another option to consider for fixing a chipped tooth. They consist of thin, custom-made shells that fit over the affected tooth to improve its appearance. Veneers are popular among cosmetic dentistry patients for their natural look and versatility.
How veneers can fix a chipped tooth
The process of getting veneers involves removing a small amount of enamel from the tooth to accommodate the veneer. The dentist will then create an impression of the tooth and send it to a lab for fabrication. Once ready, the dentist will fit the veneer onto the tooth, ensuring the color, size, and shape match the surrounding teeth.
Procedure and what to expect
The procedure typically takes between two to three visits. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the tooth and take impressions. During the second visit, the dental veneers are bonded to the teeth. Veneers don’t require anesthesia, and the process is relatively painless.
Cost and possible drawbacks
The cost of veneers varies based on factors such as location and experience of the dentist, as well as the number of teeth being treated. It’s generally more expensive than dental bonding but less than crowns. Veneers can be durable, lasting 10 to 15 years with proper care, but they’re not indestructible. They can chip or break like natural teeth, and the process is irreversible, as the enamel is permanently removed from the tooth.
V. Dental crowns
Dental crowns are a good option for severely chipped teeth that can’t be fixed with bonding or veneers. Crowns are also used for teeth that have undergone a root canal or have large cavities.
How crowns can fix a severely chipped tooth
Crowns are essentially tooth-shaped caps that are designed to fit over the entire tooth, covering any chips, cracks, or severe discoloration. The process involves removing the damaged portion of the tooth, shaping the tooth, and fitting the crown over it to restore its natural look and function.
Procedure and what to expect
The process involves two or three dental visits. During the first visit, the dentist will take impressions of the affected tooth and prepare it for the crown. The patient will wear a temporary crown until the permanent crown is ready. During the second visit, the dentist will replace the temporary crown with the permanent one, and ensure a proper fit and alignment.
Cost and possible drawbacks
The cost of dental crowns varies based on the material used and location of the tooth. Crowns can last up to 15 years or more with proper care, but they’re one of the most expensive options for fixing chipped teeth. Additionally, the process requires removing more of the natural tooth structure than bonding or veneers.
VI. Root canals
If the chipped tooth exposes nerves, root canal therapy may be necessary. Root canals are typically recommended when the tooth pulp becomes inflamed or infected, causing pain and sensitivity.
How root canals can fix a chipped tooth with exposed nerves
The root canal process involves removing the damaged, inflamed, or infected pulp from the tooth, and cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth. Once the tooth is free of infection, the dentist places a filling or crown to restore its structural integrity.
Procedure and what to expect
A root canal procedure typically involves several office visits. During the first visit, the dentist will clean the root canals, remove the damaged pulp, and place medication to prevent infection. At the next visit, the dentist will remove the medication, fill the root canals with a rubber-like material, and place a temporary filling. At the final visit, the dentist will replace the temporary filling with a permanent filling or crown.
Cost and possible drawbacks
The cost of root canal therapy is based on the location of the tooth and the severity of the damage. It’s usually more expensive than other ways of fixing chipped teeth but is less expensive than tooth extraction and replacement. Patients may experience sensitivity and discomfort for a few days after the procedure, and root canal treated teeth may be more brittle and prone to breaking.
VII. Prevention
The best way to fix a chipped tooth is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips for preventing chipped teeth:
- Wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports
- Avoid chewing on hard foods like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy
- Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bottles
- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day and flossing daily
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
Conclusion and final thoughts on preventing chipped teeth
Chipped teeth can be an unsightly and painful experience, but there are many options available to fix them. Whether you choose a DIY at-home method or a professional solution, such as dental bonding, veneers, crowns, or root canals, always consult your dentist to get the best advice for your specific case. Remember that prevention is always the best course of action to avoid chipped teeth, so practice good oral hygiene and protect your teeth from harm whenever possible.
