What is involved in treating a chipped tooth? It seems fairly straightforward, but a lot depends on which tooth you chip and how badly. It requires a trip to your local dentist. Fortunately, your friendly dental professionals at Lovett Dental Missouri City are ready to help, even on the weekends. Here is what we recommend for treating a tooth that is suddenly becomes chipped.
Getting treatment for a chipped tooth or another dental emergency is vital, which is why we’re proud to provide emergency dental services. We also offer a range of services to ensure that your teeth remain healthy in between appointments. Don’t let your chipped tooth ruin your bright, dazzling smile. Contact Lovett Dental Missouri City today at 281-969-5099 to set up an appointment.
What Causes a Chipped Tooth?
The tough outside of your teeth, or the enamel, is one of the most durable parts of your body, but, like other parts of your body, it has its limitations. If you have recently experienced regular wear and tear or a powerful blow to your tooth, it can cause it to chip. A chipped tooth can be a minor flaw in your appearance, but it can also be a significant problem. It can also cause a jagged, sharp edge that is tender to the touch and deforming your appearance. A range of conditions can cause your tooth to chip. For example, these situations can include:
- Teeth grinding while you sleep
- Falling or being in a car accident
- Playing a contact sport without wearing a mouthguard
- Biting a hard surface, such as popcorn kernels or ice cubes
Getting treatment for this dental problem can restore your smile and help you maintain your dental health.
Treating a Chipped Tooth at Home
If it is a severe chip, you must do a little first aid at home until our dentist can see you. First, we recommend rinsing out your mouth to remove any debris left behind. Secondly, you must apply pressure to stop any bleeding. Most chipped teeth do not bleed, but it is best to know what to do in an emergency.
If possible, hang onto the section of the tooth that chipped away because our dentist may reattach it. Store it in a small bit of milk and call us right away.
Lastly, take a painkiller if the tooth is bothering you. It is best to get out in front of the pain of a compromised tooth. Subsequently, once it begins to throb, your discomfort may escalate. This discomfort can cause other areas of your life to be affected and keep you from doing your daily tasks. It is important not to let your tooth sit for too long.
Treating a Chipped Tooth at Lovett Dental Missouri City
Once you arrive for your Emergency dental services appointment at Lovett Dental Missouri City, our compassionate care team will take over. We will get you comfortably situated until the dentist can see you. Your dental professional has several options for treating a chipped tooth, including:
- Reshaping your tooth
- Bonding
- Applying a porcelain veneer
- Applying a crown
- Reattaching the missing piece
Much will depend upon the degree of damage and where the tooth is located in your mouth. A chipped front tooth has a big impact on your smile so cosmetic work may be necessary. If it is a back tooth that is chipped, a crown may be all that is needed.
How to Prevent Chipping a Tooth
Accidents happen, but there are preventive measures you can take to help lessen damage to your teeth; most involve strong oral hygiene practices and regular visits to your dentist for cleanings and check-ups. Strong, healthy teeth are less likely to chip, crack, or fracture, so keep yours in good condition by avoiding sugary snacks and beverages and by eating well.
A balanced diet that gives you the right amounts of minerals such as calcium and vitamins A, B, and C is essential to strong teeth. Eat plenty of cruciferous vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. Additionally, beverages such as milk or orange juice with calcium are suitable options, too. See your dentist regularly for check-ups, and brush and floss regularly at home to round out your oral hygiene practices.
Repair Your Tooth at Lovett Dental Missouri City
In general, treating a chipped tooth is easy enough; it is the more serious dental issues that require specialized care. Fortunately, Lovett Dental Missouri City is a full-service, family dental practice that helps patients of all ages, from infants through adults, with many dental problems. We can help you with a number of different dental issues that you may experience. Some of the services that we offer to our patients include:
Whether you need a pediatric dentist to help care for your baby’s first tooth, or your teen direly needs braces, schedule an appointment today with Lovett Dental Missouri City at 281-969-5099. We can help you protect your smile.
