A chipped tooth is a common dental injury that causes aesthetic and oral health problems. It is one of the many dental concerns we treat in our North Liberty, IA, dental office. While it is not a dental emergency, chipped teeth can lead to pain and distress. However, this type of dental injury should never be ignored either. Any significant damage to a tooth can lead to further damage and infection down the road if left untreated. Dr. Jeremy Tu offers several treatments for a chipped tooth in North Liberty, IA.
What Causes a Chipped Tooth?
The outer layer of the tooth, called the enamel, is one of the strongest substances in the human body. It is a durable shield that is responsible for protecting the inside of the tooth. Even though it is every tough, there are some things or events that can cause it to break. The causes of a chipped tooth typically situations including:
- Trauma or Accidents: A sudden blow to the face, such as a car wreck or a sports injury, can lead to chipped teeth. People who participate in contact sports without wearing mouthguards are at a higher risk of chipping a tooth.
- Biting Hard Objects: Chewing on hard substances like ice, hard candy, or non-food items like pens or bottle caps can lead to chipped teeth. This is a bad habit and should be avoided.
- Tooth Decay: Cavities weaken the tooth structure, making it more prone to chipping. Neglected dental hygiene and untreated tooth decay can increase the risk of chipped teeth.
- Teeth Grinding: Chronic teeth grinding or jaw clenching, which often occurs during sleep, can slowly wear down the enamel, making the teeth susceptible to chipping.
- Uneven Bite or Misaligned Teeth: Malocclusion, such as an uneven bite or crooked teeth, can create areas of excessive force and lead to chipping.
What Should I do If I get a Chipped Tooth?
If you chip a tooth, you should take action right away. Acting quickly will prevent further damage and manage any discomfort:
- Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and remove any loose tooth fragments.
- If there is bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area with light pressure until the bleeding stops.
- Use an ice pack on the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to reduce any pain or discomfort.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side to prevent additional damage.
Treatment Options for a Chipped Tooth in North Liberty, IA
The appropriate treatment for a chipped tooth depends on the severity and location of the chip. Dr. Tu will examine your tooth and recommend the best treatment for you. Common chipped tooth treatment options include:
- Tooth Bonding: For minor chips, Dr. Tu may suggest tooth bonding. He will apply a tooth-colored resin material to the affected area, shape it, and then harden the material using a special light. This is the most affordable option available; however, it is also the least durable.
- Porcelain Veneers: A dental veneer is a thin, custom-made shell that covers the front surface of the tooth. Dr. Tu will suggest a porcelain veneer if you have a larger chip or for improving the appearance of multiple teeth. A dental veneer is a durable and permanent solution for a chipped tooth.
- Dental Crowns: If a significant portion of the tooth is damaged, you may need a dental crown. A Crown is a cap that will cover your entire tooth to the gum line to restore its strength and appearance.
- Root Canal Treatment: If the chip extends into the tooth’s pulp, it can cause sensitivity and pain, damage the pulp, and compromise its vitality. The chip can also simply allow bacteria to enter the tooth and cause an infection. In such cases, a root canal procedure is necessary to remove the damaged pulp and save the tooth.
Chipped Tooth FAQs
Chipped teeth can be solely cosmetic or lead to pain and further problems. Read the answers to these common patient questions.
Is a chipped tooth considered a dental emergency?
It depends on the severity. A small chip without pain might not be an emergency but requires prompt attention. If the chip is large, causes pain, or has sharp edges that cut your mouth, you should contact us immediately. Delaying care could lead to further damage or infection.
Will a chipped tooth heal on its own?
No, once a tooth chips, it will not regenerate or heal naturally. Enamel does not grow back, so we must repair the chip. Leaving it untreated can expose the tooth to further damage or decay. Dental treatment restores both the appearance and function of the tooth.
Can a chipped tooth get worse over time?
Yes, leaving a chipped tooth untreated can lead to more damage. The chip may grow larger, expose more of the tooth, or make it easier for bacteria to enter and cause decay. Additionally, chipped areas are more vulnerable to breaking. Early treatment helps preserve the tooth and avoid further issues.
Is it okay to leave a small chip untreated?
Even small chips should be evaluated by one of our dentists. While they may not seem serious, they can affect your bite or become larger. Minor chips can usually be smoothed or bonded quickly. It’s always better to address them before they lead to bigger problems.
Can I eat normally with a chipped tooth?
If the chip is minor, you may be able to eat soft foods without issue. However, chewing on the damaged tooth or eating hard, crunchy, or sticky foods could worsen the chip. It’s safest to avoid using the chipped tooth until we evaluate it. Protecting it helps prevent further damage.
Will my tooth look normal after repair?
Yes, modern dental materials allow dentists to restore chipped teeth so they look natural and seamless. We match the color and shape of the repair to blend in with the surrounding teeth. People usually can’t tell a tooth has been chipped once it’s repaired. The goal is to restore both function and appearance.
A chipped tooth is a dental concern that should be treated as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Call the office of Dr. Jeremy Tu to book an appointment to find the most suitable treatment for your chipped tooth in North Liberty, IA. Call (319) 284-4361 to book your appointment or request an appointment online by filling out the form.