Did you know tooth enamel is harder than steel? The surface that protects your teeth is composed of 96 percent mineral, which is the highest percentage of any body tissue. When we bite down, teeth can exert an average of 200 pounds of pressure. Yet, we know teeth are susceptible to damage as a result of grinding, chewing on hard food such as nuts or ice cubes, or accidents. While other tissues aren’t as strong, they are able to heal themselves. Teeth cannot. When a tooth is chipped, it is important to quickly seek the care of a cosmetic dentist. Otherwise, you are at risk of further damaging the tooth and even infection. Several option for restoring a chipped tooth include filling/bonding, crowns on teeth, veneers and implants.
Restorative Treatment Options
Treatment options for a chipped tooth depend on the severity of the damage. A small chip generally only requires one office visit. More serious injury may require more advanced treatment – such as crowns on teeth – that requires more time.
Here are some solutions your dentist may use to fix a chipped tooth.
Dental Filling or Bonding
A small chip can be repairable by adding a filling in the spot as you would a cavity. For teeth that can be seen when you smile, your dentist will likely apply a bonding material to the tooth. During this process, your dentist will shape the bonding material to look like your natural tooth. Ultraviolet light is used to harden the material.
Crowns on Teeth
When a larger piece breaks off of a tooth, the dentist may choose to cover it with a temporary crown. In the meantime, your dental provider will be making a permanent crown from either porcelain, resin or ceramics. This process usually requires two office visits.
Veneers
For front teeth, the best choice may be to cover the chipped tooth with a dental veneer to restore your smile. First, the dentist makes an impression of the tooth to be covered. A week or two later, the custom veneer is back from the lab and custom-fit to your tooth with a special cement.
Implants
If the damage is too severe, it may be better to replace the tooth with an implant supported denture. Your dentist can secure the implant in your jawbone and enable you to resume a normal diet with few restrictions.
Restorative Dental Solutions Near Plainfield, IL
If you need assistance with a chipped tooth, be sure to contact the best dentist in Plainfield. You can reach Shorewood Family Dental Care at 815-725-5991 or book an appointment online.
