Chipped Tooth Repair

Chipped teeth can result from a range of unexpected mishaps and everyday activities, from sports injuries to crunching popcorn kernels. At Gentle Dental, our expert dentists employ advanced techniques to restore both the beauty and functionality of your teeth, ensuring you leave with your most radiant smile.

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How Are Chipped Teeth Repaired?

A chipped tooth may seem like a big deal, but fixing it is a pretty straightforward process. Depending on the size and location of the chip, your dentist can simply bond a tooth-colored composite resin material to the affected area, sculpting and polishing it to restore that perfect tooth appearance. This conservative repair protects the inner tooth and blends seamlessly with your smile.

For larger chips or cracks, a crown or veneer may be the ideal solution. These tooth-colored shells cap over the entire visible portion of the tooth, not only fixing the chip but strengthening and protecting the remaining tooth structure. Modern dental crowns and veneers look incredibly natural and are extremely durable. Getting your chipped tooth repaired has so many benefits - it prevents further cracking or decay, eliminates any discomfort from a rough edge, and, most importantly, allows you to smile with confidence!

What Can We Help You With Today?

Crowns

Veneers

Dental Implants

What To Expect

If you're receiving bonding, your dentist will first slightly roughen the area to be repaired and apply a conditioning liquid to help the bonding material adhere. They'll then apply a tooth-colored composite resin in layers, sculpting and shaping it as it hardens with a curing light. They will then polish the bonding to a smooth, natural-looking finish that blends seamlessly with your tooth.

If you need a crown or veneer for a larger chip, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing a thin outer layer to allow room for the new restoration to fit over the top. They'll take impressions or digital scans, then have your permanent crown or veneer custom-made by a dental lab. You'll get a temporary restoration for a couple of weeks while you wait. At your next visit, the new crown or veneer is checked for fit and bite, then securely bonded into place.

Bonding takes around an hour or less to complete. Crowns and veneers require two visits spaced 1-3 weeks apart. Recovery is quick—you may experience slight sensitivity to hot/cold initially, but that goes away in a few days. With good oral hygiene habits, bonding can last 3-7 years, while crowns and veneers commonly last 10-15 years before replacement is needed.

After The Procedure

Once the repair is completed, you can expect immediate improvement in the appearance of your tooth and enhanced comfort while chewing and speaking. Our team will provide you with thorough aftercare instructions to ensure the longevity of the repair and maintain optimal oral health. Additionally, we are always available to address any concerns or questions you may have following the procedure, ensuring your satisfaction and peace of mind.

Am I a Candidate for Chipped Tooth Repair?

Those who have small to moderate tooth chips can get them easily repaired at Gentle Dental. Ideal candidates for chipped tooth repair include:

Anyone with a minor chip or crack in a tooth, especially on the front teeth that are visible when smiling
Individuals with a larger chip or crack that doesn't extend below the gum line
Patients whose chipped tooth doesn't have an underlying cavity or decay
People with chipped teeth caused by injury, biting on something hard, grinding/clenching, or general wear over time
Teenagers and adults - chipped tooth repairs are very durable for permanent teeth
Those who want to restore the appearance and function of their chipped tooth quickly and easily
Individuals who have healthy tooth structure remaining around the chipped area to support the repair
Patients looking for an affordable and conservative way to fix a chipped tooth before more damage occurs

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Call (833) 278-6990

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Enhance Your Smile

Schedule a consultation at Gentle Dental to explore options for enhancing your smile and improving your oral health.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a chipped tooth?

A chipped tooth can result from various factors, including trauma from accidents or injuries, biting down on hard objects, tooth decay, or weakened tooth structure due to large fillings.

Is it necessary to repair a chipped tooth?

Yes, it's essential to repair a chipped tooth to prevent further damage, restore its appearance, and maintain oral health. Leaving a chipped tooth untreated can lead to sensitivity, decay, and potentially more extensive dental issues.

What are the treatment options for repairing a chipped tooth?

The extent of a chipped tooth's damage determines the treatment options. Common solutions include dental bonding, porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and, in more severe cases, root canal therapy followed by a crown.

Is chipped tooth repair painful?

Chipped tooth repair procedures are typically not painful, as local anesthesia is used to numb the area before treatment. Patients may experience some discomfort or sensitivity during recovery, but this is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How long does chipped tooth repair take?

The duration of chipped tooth repair depends on the treatment option chosen and the complexity of the case. Dental bonding can often be completed in a single visit, while procedures like dental crowns may require multiple appointments.

Can a chipped tooth be repaired quickly?

Yes, minor chips can often be repaired quickly in a single dental visit using dental bonding or porcelain veneers. These procedures are minimally invasive and provide immediate improvement in the appearance and function of the tooth.

Will my insurance cover the cost of chipped tooth repair?

Many dental insurance plans cover at least a portion of the cost of chipped tooth repair, especially if it's deemed necessary for oral health reasons. However, coverage can vary depending on your specific insurance plan, so it's best to check with your provider beforehand.

How long will the repair last?

The longevity of a chipped tooth repair depends on several factors, including the type of treatment used, the location of the chip, and your oral hygiene habits. With proper care and regular dental check-ups, repairs such as dental bonding or crowns can last many years.

Can a chipped tooth repair be undone?

In most cases, chipped tooth repairs are permanent solutions. However, if you're not satisfied with the results or experience issues with the repair, your dentist can discuss options for revision or alternative treatments.

How can I prevent chipping my teeth in the future?

To prevent chipping your teeth, avoid biting down on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails, wear a mouthguard during sports activities, maintain good oral hygiene, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.