While a chipped tooth may not always be a dental emergency, you’ll want to get it fixed as soon as possible. The longer it’s left untreated, the more susceptible your smile is to bacteria, decay, and infection. But is it possible for the issue to recover on its own? Keep reading to learn what you should expect from a chipped tooth and how you’ll need to treat the condition to preserve your dental health.
Will a Chipped Tooth Get Better By Itself?
It’s important to understand that damaged pearly whites will not heal on their own. Although a chipped tooth may remineralize to help strengthen it, any portion that’s missing will not regenerate. Even if you aren’t experiencing discomfort from the situation, you should make sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Not only will they want to ensure your gums and remaining teeth aren’t damaged, but they’ll also want to prevent further harm to the one that was chipped. To avoid more serious oral health complications, it’s best to seek dental care right away.
How Can I Address a Chipped Tooth?
Your priority is to evaluate the severity of the damage. If your chipped tooth is accompanied by excessive bleeding, a fractured jaw, or difficulty swallowing, then you may need to visit your local ER immediately. However, if the injury is minor, then you should have plenty of time to reach out to your emergency dentist instead. Once you’ve arrived at your appointment, you’ll discuss your treatment options for restoring your smile.
3 Popular Treatments to Fix a Chipped Tooth
Here are three treatment options that can help address a chipped tooth and what to expect from them:
- Dental bonding – By using a small amount of composite resin, your dentist can sculpt over your affected tooth to repair minor damages. Not only is this treatment more cost-effective, but it can also be completed in just a single visit.
- Veneers – These wafer-thin porcelain shells can conceal most dental imperfections in one or more teeth simultaneously. Your chipped tooth can be restored in a couple of appointments, and you can enjoy a comprehensive smile makeover that can last 15+ years with proper care.
- Dental crowns – This restorative treatment uses durable materials to cover mild to severely damaged teeth. Your dental crown will blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile and provide the strength necessary to withstand the pressure from chewing.
Even if having a chipped tooth isn’t bothersome to you at first, you should consider treating it before any complications or further damage can occur. Don’t hesitate to speak with your dentist about it, and they’ll be glad to help get you back on track with a healthy smile!
About the Author
Dr. Krunal Patel studied at the New York University College of Dentistry and has provided excellent care for over a decade. He’s also a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. He offers a wide variety of high-quality and comprehensive services, including dental crowns, dental bonding, and veneers. If you’d like to schedule an appointment to fix a chipped tooth, feel free to visit our website or call 215-643-5220.
