When it comes to first impressions, a smile can take you miles; however, a chipped tooth may potentially lead to further dental issues, along with a decrease in confidence. While teeth are very strong and can withstand quite a bit of stress, their strength is limited. There are numerous ways a tooth may become chipped: a hit to the face, falling down, or biting down on something hard are only some ways. There’s no need to worry, as there are a range of treatments, like esthetic bonding, to fix a chipped tooth and restore your smile.
What Do I Do After Chipping A Tooth?
If a tooth breaks, or chips, it’s advisable to schedule an appointment for the nearest possible date. In the meantime, there are temporary at-home treatments. For pain, take over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, like acetaminophen, and rinse your mouth with salt water to provide temporary relief. Also, chewing soft foods may ease pressure on the break, lessening pain, and avoid chewing on the side with the damaged tooth to prevent exacerbating the condition.
What Are My Treatment Options?
A chipped tooth is not something you necessarily have to deal with for the rest of your life. There are a few repair options; however, treatment varies by severity of the break. If there is only a minor chip in the enamel, repair may be possible in a single visit; however, severe damage may require further, more in depth treatment. A minor break or chip in the enamel typically calls for a minor cosmetic fix, like dental bonding or a porcelain veneer. In some cases, dental crowns may be necessary to repair cracked or broken teeth that have become damaged due to a variety of reasons. If the teeth around your chipped tooth can also use improvement, then we might suggest additional cosmetic treatment, such as teeth whitening or invisalign, to give you a smile you’ll be proud to show.
To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling (203) 878-6699. The specialists at Sensitive Care Cosmetic & Family Dentistry proudly serve patients and their families in Milford, Stratford, West Haven, New Haven, and all surrounding communities.