What Happens to Tooth Enamel with a Chipped Tooth?
Do you have a chipped tooth? Continue reading to find out what happens to your enamel when a tooth becomes chipped, as well as how it can be treated. The enamel, which is the hard outer layer of your teeth, is considered one of the most complex parts of the body. It is, however, not invincible. Teeth may chip as a result of chewing on hard things such as ice or hard sweets, accidents involving falls or automobiles, taking part in contact sports without wearing a mouthguard, or teeth grinding during sleep.
Treating a chipped tooth
Weak teeth are more prone to chip than solid teeth. A tooth's strength may be weakened by various factors, including tooth decay, large fillings, acid-producing meals, digestive disorders such as acid reflux and heartburn, excess sugar intake, and aging.
A visual examination of the mouth can help the dentist diagnose a chipped tooth. They will also consider the patient's symptoms and inquire about any incidents contributing to the chipping.
The location, severity, and symptoms of a chipped tooth all influence how it is treated. It is not a medical emergency unless it is causing extreme discomfort and interferes with eating and sleeping. Nonetheless, patients should see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent infection or additional tooth damage. The tooth may typically be smoothed and polished to remove a small chip.
Reattachment
If the broken tooth piece is still available, keep it wet by placing it in a glass of milk. Calcium will aid in its survival. If milk is not available, one can tuck it in the mouth and avoid swallowing it. Book an appointment with a dentist right away as they may be able to reattach the piece to the tooth.
Bonding
For this process, the dentist will apply composite resin or porcelain over the tooth surface. The substance is hardened and dried using ultraviolet light. After curing, the material is shaped again until it fits the tooth. Composite bonding can last up to 10 years.
Porcelain veneers
The dentist will smooth away part of the tooth's enamel to create space for the veneer before placing it. They usually remove less than a millimeter. To manufacture the veneer, the dentist will imprint the tooth and send it to a lab. A temporary veneer may be applied during the fabrication process. The dentist will attach the permanent veneer to the tooth once it is ready.
Onlays
A minor tooth chip can be fixed with a dental onlay, often used on molars' surfaces. Usually, the dentist will mold the tooth and send it to a dental lab that will fabricate the onlay. They will fit the onlay to the tooth and then cement it in place after production. If the tooth is severely damaged, the dentist may suggest a complete dental crown.
Do you have a chipped tooth?
A chipped tooth leaves the enamel vulnerable and the tooth open to the risk of infections and further deterioration. Visit a dentist as soon as possible after chipping a tooth to discuss restoration options.
Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistmarblehillga.com or call Foothills Dental Associates at (770) 230-2343 for an appointment in our Marble Hill office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Chipped Tooth in Marble Hill, GA.
Related Posts
A general dentist helps ease new and lasting tooth sensitivity. This dental issue may be rooted in something as simple as brushing the teeth too hard. Alternatively, it may indicate an underlying oral health condition, like gum disease, that needs restorative treatment. Understanding tooth sensitivity, its causes, and how it is treated can inform patients…
When people think of going for a general dentist visit, they usually think that the main purpose is to shine up their teeth and get a more in-depth floss. However, general dentists perform several vital tasks during these appointments and take measurements to add to the patient’s history. Changes in these measurements over time can…
Many patients brush their teeth twice a day yet still deal with plaque buildup, gum irritation, or lingering bad breath. A general dentist often finds that the issue is not a lack of effort but rather a toothbrush that no longer cleans effectively. Bristles wear down gradually, so it can be difficult to notice when…
While toothaches can make eating or even your daily routine unpleasant, a general dentist has various solutions to ease this pain. If the painful tooth is decayed, they can restore it to stop the ache. They can also help ease pain in otherwise healthy teeth through medicine and improved oral hygiene practices. Thus, whether the…