If you have a tooth that has been chipped, it can lead to a number of issues that affect the look of your smile and even your overall dental health. Any time a tooth is damaged, aesthetics and health are often impacted. We always consider both of these factors at our Lansdale restorative dentistry center, and we carefully craft dental treatments with such issues in mind.
Let's consider some of the issues related to chipped and cracked teeth, and then go over the most common treatment options to address these matters.
Chips Can Lead to Serious Problems
When it comes to dental health, chipped teeth can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. You may find it difficult to eat certain foods, with sensitivity and discomfort caused by even soft food items. Since more of the internal structure of a tooth is exposed, chipped teeth can potentially increase the risk of a root canal infection occurring. This can lead to serious pain and discomfort as well as the spread of the infection to other parts of the mouth.
In terms of smile aesthetics, even just a small chip on the tooth can be extremely noticeable. This is especially true of chips on the front teeth. A chip may leave you feeling self-conscious about laughing, smiling, and speaking, even around people you've known for years.
Dental Bonding for Minor Cosmetic Chips and Cracks
For minor chips that are cosmetic in nature, dental bonding tends to be a good idea. Dental bonding involves the use of a tooth-colored resin that is painted on the teeth. This builds out tooth structure subtly and makes your tooth look pristine and whole.
Porcelain Veneers for Aesthetic Fractures
For more serious chips, a porcelain veneer may be the best option to consider. Porcelain veneers are thin shells of dental ceramic that are used to mask imperfections from view. With a porcelain veneer in place, chips, cracks, and fractures are totally hidden and help you smile with confidence. Given the versatility of porcelain veneers, dentist can also use these shells to address tooth discoloration, gaps between teeth, and other spacing and alignment issues.
Inlays and Onlays for Serious Dental Damage
For serious chips, a dental restoration will be required. This may mean an inlay or onlay. Inlays and onlays are much like dental fillings, but they are larger and can potentially replace the cusps (biting surfaces) of the teeth. Thanks to inlays and onlays, people can bite, chew, and smile with renewed confidence.
Dental Crowns for Severely Fractured Teeth
For major chips that affect the majority of a tooth's structure, dental crowns are a great option to consider. These caps fit over a tooth that has been seriously damaged or decayed. With a crown in place, a person is able to bite and chew without experiencing undue soreness or discomfort.
What If a Tooth Cannot Be Fixed?
Sometimes a chip is so serious that it could mean the loss of a tooth or professional tooth extraction. Not to worry. There are different treatment options available for tooth loss, including bridges, dentures, and dental implants. We can discuss these options in greater detail during your visit to the practice.
Contact Leading Dental Solutions
For more information about your treatment options for chips, cracks, and other dental health issues, be sure to contact our team of cosmetic and restorative dentistry experts today. The team at Leading Dental Solutions is here to help you have a healthy and beautiful smile.