Imagine waking up in the morning one day only to realize you’ve just chipped your tooth. It’s possible you grind your teeth at night or bit into something hard yesterday and didn’t notice the problem. If you check the mirror and the damage doesn’t appear to be too extensive, you might be tempted just to leave it alone. After all, it’s not doing any harm and will probably heal itself eventually, right? Unfortunately, when it comes to dental problems, that’s not true and it’s best to see your dentist as soon as you’re able to. Keep reading to learn more about why!
Why Should I See a Dentist for My Chipped Tooth?
While your situation may not be an immediate emergency, it’s still important to get help sooner rather than later. It’s easy to assume that a chip is an aesthetic concern and doesn’t impact your dental well-being but in fact, it does have some health risks.
Teeth don’t regrow, and now that your pearly white is broken, its structure is compromised. Depending on your circumstances, you may have moderate discomfort, mild swelling, and tooth sensitivity along with its altered appearance. You might also have unseen issues like a hairline fracture, and unhealthy bacteria are more likely to penetrate it as a result. This can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay or additional cracks. Your dentist is aware of these risks and won’t want to delay scheduling your appointment.
How Does My Dentist Fix My Chipped Tooth?
The right remedy for your tooth depends on the extent of the damage. When you arrive for your dental visit, you’ll first have an examination which may include X-rays to determine the full extent of the harm done. Then, your dentist will recommend appropriate treatments based on their findings. If your chip truly is a surface problem, then dental bonding, porcelain veneers, or a dental crown can all perfect your grin and protect your tooth. If it’s more severe, it might require an emergency root canal or tooth extraction and replacement.
How Do I Care for Myself After Treatment?
Your dentist is sure to provide aftercare instructions once they’ve repaired the injury. This can include at-home dental hygiene tips like brushing and flossing twice daily, dietary restrictions, wearing oral appliances to prevent teeth grinding, and follow-up visits to ensure you’re healing as intended. You shouldn’t have much ongoing swelling or pain, so if you continue to experience these symptoms, call your dentist so they can determine the cause.
Now you know why it’s so imperative to have your chipped tooth treated right away!
About the Author
Dr. Moji Chandy has nearly 20 years of experience improving her patients’ lives by enhancing their oral health. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the NYU College of Dentistry and stays on top of the latest dental trends by attending countless educational classes, symposiums, and seminars. She accepts dental insurance and provides flexible financing so that budget doesn’t keep you from getting the care you need. If you’ve chipped, you’re welcome to request a same-day appointment so you don’t have to wait for relief. You’re welcome to contact the office on the website or by calling (972) 492-6700.