Having a chipped tooth is one of the leading issues for patients in any dental clinic, and it really isn’t the most pleasant experience to deal with. Incidents with tooth chips – which can arise from biting hard foods or physical injury – can range from minor to serious. It all depends on your personal situation. There are many options to fix cracked teeth no matter what incident you’ve experienced.
Consulting a dentist will be the first step on the journey to fixing any chipped teeth, as they will know the best course of action based on your situation. The extent of damage that a chip can cause is not always noticeable to the average layman, so seeking professional advice is very important.
Dental bonding
Quick, simple, and cost-effective! Dental bonding will be
the go-to for many patients – whether their teeth are gapped, misshapen, discoloured,
or chipped. The treatment is also minimally invasive and causes little to no
discomfort.
The first step is usually applying the mould straight to the necessary area. Once the mould has dried, the area is polished and shaped to match the rest of the tooth. It’s that simple!
Veneers
Veneers can be slightly more time consuming, but it is a solution that can often make people feel more satisfied when faced with a chipped tooth. Porcelain veneers (although other materials are on offer) are bonded to the front of your tooth and can last upwards of 30 years if cared for correctly.
The treatment initially involves removing some of the structure of the pre-existing tooth, then creating impressions to help the shaping process of the veneers. Patients typically have full input during this process so they are happy with the colour and design.
Creating the veneers correctly cannot be done during the initial appointment and could take more than a few visits to achieve the perfect results.
Dental Implants
Unfortunately, more serious chips, that have cracked deep under the gum line, cannot be salvaged and your options are very limited. This will mean your tooth more than likely needs extracting and replacing.
It’s vital that a tooth is replaced when it’s removed. Other teeth in that area could begin to shift around it. Although more costly, slightly more invasive, and longer treatment time, dental implants are the best solution to this type of issue.
The process of treatment is a little more extensive, and preliminary checks and reports will be produced by your dentist. Your procedure will be booked separately, and the replacement tooth itself will be made uniquely for each patient.
Unsure about your dental health? Call your nearest Synergy Dental Clinic and we’ll be happy to help.