7 Options for Fixing a Chipped or Broken Tooth

Are you concerned that you may have broken or chipped a tooth?

If you’ve suffered an injury to your mouth, it’s normal to get nervous that you may have broken a tooth. It can be hard to know what you should do if this happens. Should you visit a dentist?

It’s best to visit a dentist or medical professional. In this article, we’ll get you familiar with the various options that you have to restore your chipped or broken tooth. That way, you can get back to enjoying eating and speaking as soon as possible.

1. Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are a popular choice for fixing a chipped or broken tooth. These are customized thin bodies of colored material, resin, or porcelain that are bonded to the front of a person’s teeth. This restoration covers the problem areas, allowing for a natural-looking smile.

Another advantage is that dental veneers are durable and resistant to further chipping or breaking. Also, the process does not require any significant alterations to the tooth’s surface as it is a cosmetic procedure for improving the tooth’s appearance. To ensure a perfect fit, dentists will take a mold of the person’s tooth and have the veneers custom-made.

2. Dental Crowns

After a general assessment of the tooth, a dentist may suggest a dental crown. It is a cap positioned over a tooth to revive its size, appearance, shape, and strength. The crown covers the entire visible part of a damaged tooth.

In some cases, the damaged tooth is first restored with a filling material to give a strong bond to the crown. A precise impression of the patient’s tooth is taken and then sent to a trusted laboratory to craft the new crown. The crown is then bonded over the prepared tooth with a high-quality adhesive. 

3. Dental Implants

The procedure involves placing a metal post into the jawbone beneath the gums, alongside the natural teeth. An artificial tooth or crown is then affixed onto the post, giving it a natural appearance and feeling, matching the color of the existing teeth.

The benefits of dental implants over other options, such as bridges and dentures, including that they are more durable and stable than other options and can last a lifetime, making them a reliable choice for fixing chipped or broken teeth. Dental implants are also more comfortable than traditional removable tooth replacements, and unlike bridges, they do not must adjacent teeth to be modified to support the replacement tooth. They also help to support healthy bone levels, providing a stable foundation for artificial teeth.

4. Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is an affordable and less invasive procedure used to repair broken or chipped teeth. It is a fast and easy procedure resulting in a natural-looking smile. The dentist will first examine the tooth to decide the extent of damage, and then select a composite material that matches the existing tooth color.

Then, apply this material to the surface of the tooth to repair the area. The material will then be shaped, hardened, and polished to give it a natural look. Bonding can last for a few years and may be touched up and repaired over time. This makes dental bonding a great choice for those looking for an immediate fix for chipped or broken teeth without undergoing costly and major procedures.

5. Root Canal

A root canal is a surgical procedure used to treat an infected tooth. It involves removing the inside of the tooth and replacing it with an artificial material. In cases where the root of the tooth is chipped or broken, a root canal may be necessary to prevent further damage.

Options for fixing a chipped or broken tooth root canal include using a dental crown to cover and protect the tooth, or sometimes, if the chip is small, a filling is used to fill the cavity and give the tooth extra support. In cases where the chip or break is serious, however, a post and core build-up may be done. This involves placing a metal post inside the root of the tooth to give it support and adding a core, which is either porcelain or a composite material, to fill in the new root cavity.

6. Permanent Filling

There are two types of permanent fillings – porcelain and composite resins. Porcelain fillings are custom matched to the shade of your existing teeth and are more stain resistant than composite fillings. Composite resin fillings are cheaper and can be shaped to match the contours of your teeth and can be made to match the color of your existing teeth.

Both types of fillings have the same purpose of filling the crack to protect the tooth from further damage and restore it to its normal appearance. Before deciding on a treatment choice, it is important to visit your dentist to assess the state of your tooth and decide the best choice for you. If you would like further information, please visit https://www.thebondidentists.com.au, where there is an experienced team of dentists who are happy to discuss the options available.

7. Post-Treatment Care

Immediately after treatment, patients should rinse their mouths with warm water and a mild saline solution to reduce irritation and promote healing. Patients should also avoid hard foods, such as nuts and hard candy, to prevent further damage and cross-biting, which can lead to further complications. Patients should also limit tobacco products, particularly for those who get their teeth fixed with a crown or an implant.

Also, the patient should attend regular follow-ups with the dentist, typically every three to six months or as advised by the dentist, for their repaired tooth remains healthy and well-adjusted. Also, a good oral hygiene routine, including brushing, flossing, and using anti-bacterial mouthwash should be part of the post-treatment care plan. Finally, regular visits to the dental hygienist for professional teeth cleaning sessions are recommended to support the health of the tooth.

Implications of Ignoring a Chipped or Broken Tooth

Dental crowns can be used to fix chipped or broken teeth, restore your smile, and protect the sensitive nerve area.

There are many options available for fixing damaged teeth that can help keep your mouth healthy. If you think you may have a broken or chipped tooth, contact your dentist for the best course of action.

Are you interested in learning more about how we can help you smile? Take some time today to learn more about our dental solutions!