Having a chipped tooth can be an unpleasant experience, especially when it is sudden and unexpected. A chipped tooth can happen due to a variety of reasons such as an accident, a hit to the face, biting down too hard, or even old age. Regardless of the cause, it is important to take immediate action to prevent further damage. In this blog post, we will discuss chipped teeth and the steps to take when you find yourself in this situation.
Identify the Type of Chip
Have you ever experienced the dreaded moment of biting into a hard piece of candy or accidentally crunching down on a popcorn kernel, only to feel a sharp pain and discover a chip in your tooth? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. In fact, chipped teeth are a common dental issue that can happen to anyone at any time. But before you panic, the first step is to identify the type of chip.
- Minor Chip: This type of chip is less than a centimetre in size and only affects a small portion of the tooth. You may notice a rough edge or a small, shallow divot. While it may not be aesthetically pleasing, a minor chip usually doesn’t cause any pain or discomfort.
- Major Chip: A major chip is when the entire tooth is affected, and it can be a painful and alarming experience. You may feel sensitivity to hot or cold temperature, sharp pain when biting or chewing, or even a visible gap in your smile.
Now that you know the difference between a minor and major chip, it’s important to understand that the treatment plan will vary depending on the severity of the chip. For minor chips, your dentist may recommend smoothing out the rough edges or applying a dental bonding material. However, a major chip may require a more extensive procedure such as a dental crown or veneer.
Employ First Aid on the Damaged Tooth
Breaking a tooth can be a traumatic experience, but don’t panic! There are simple first aid steps you can take to prevent further damage and preserve your beautiful smile.
- Step 1: Assess the Damage
Is the chip minor or severe? If it’s just a small chip, you can probably wait until your next dental appointment to have it fixed. If it’s a larger chip or a crack, you’ll need to take action right away.
- Step 2: Apply First Aid
To reduce swelling and bleeding, apply a cold compress to the affected area. If you’re in pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen. Don’t apply aspirin directly to the tooth, as this can cause burning and irritation.
- Step 3: Get Professional Help
While these first aid measures are helpful, they’re only temporary. You’ll need to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that the tooth is properly restored. Your dentist may recommend a filling, crown, or veneer to repair the chip and protect the tooth.
Visit a Dentist for Evaluation
Chipping a tooth can be a scary experience, but it’s important to take the necessary steps to address the issue. After taking first aid measures, it’s time to visit a dentist for an evaluation. Not only can a chipped tooth be painful, but it can also impact the overall health of your mouth.
During your visit, the dentist will examine the extent of the damage and suggest the best course of action. Depending on the severity of the chip, the dentist may recommend bonding, veneers, or crowns. These procedures are designed to restore the appearance and function of your tooth, so you can get back to smiling and eating your favourite foods without discomfort.
But why should you see a dentist instead of trying to fix the issue yourself? Well, for one, dentists have years of training and experience in dealing with a range of dental issues. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan to ensure your tooth is properly restored. Plus, attempting to fix a chipped tooth on your own can lead to further damage or infection, which can be even more costly and painful to fix in the long run.
Get it Repaired
Once the dentist has evaluated the tooth, it is time to get it repaired. Luckily, there are a few options to repair your tooth and get your smile back to its shining glory. After your dentist evaluates the damage, they may recommend bonding, veneers, or a crown.
- Bonding: This is the most common and affordable option. Your dentist will fill in the chip with a tooth-coloured, plastic material. In just one visit, your tooth will look as good as new.
- Veneers: If your chip is a bit larger or you have other cosmetic concerns, your dentist may suggest veneers. These thin layers of porcelain are custom-made to fit over your entire tooth, giving it a completely new appearance. While more expensive than bonding, veneers can last up to 15 years with proper care.
- Crowns: For more serious cases, such as a large chip or decay, a crown may be necessary. This involves the dentist placing a cap over the entire tooth, giving it added protection and a fresh look. Crowns are the most expensive option, but can last up to 30 years.
No matter which option you choose, the important thing is to get it taken care of as soon as possible. A chipped tooth can lead to further damage or even infection if left untreated. Chipped teeth can be an unpleasant experience. However, there are steps that can be taken to repair the damage and prevent further damage. The first step is to identify the type of chip and take necessary first aid measures. It is then important to visit a dentist for an evaluation and determine the best course of action. Finally, it is time to get the tooth repaired which could include bonding, veneers, or a crown. Taking these steps can help ensure that your tooth remains healthy and strong.
