28 Jun Correct That Chip
Having confidence in your smile is important. However, this can be hindered when you have a chipped tooth. With a chip, it can create insecurities in showing your teeth and limit you from embracing the beautiful smile you have. Here at Prescott Dentistry we understand your cosmetic dentistry needs, and want to help you embrace the smile you were meant to have by correcting your chip.
How a Chip Occurs
Several people throughout their lives have to deal with a chipped tooth at some point. This is caused by the enamel wearing down. The enamel can be worn down from acidic foods and drinks that decrease the strength of the enamel. Biting into something hard, falling or having an accident can cause the weakened enamel to break and create chips in your teeth. Whatever the reason, there are a few options for how to fix it.
Dental Bonding
The process for correcting a chipped tooth will depend on the severity of the chip. If the chip is smaller on the front teeth, it can be corrected through dental bonding. This is a quick and more simple procedure, where anesthesia is not necessary. The tooth will be roughened to ensure the material will adhere to it. A putty will be applied to the tooth, which will be shaped and smoothed. Once the shaping is done, the material is hardened by an ultraviolet light and the process is complete.
Veneers
For a more complete and stronger option that could last up to 30 years, porcelain veneers may be the way to go. Veneers are a cover for your teeth and bonded to the front of your teeth. This is a longer process than bonding. Your dentist will make an impression of your teeth, where this will be sent to a lab to make the veneers. The veneers can be for one tooth or multiple for a complete smile restoration. The first appointment will be to prepare your teeth for the veneers, set a temporary veneer, where the second appointment will then set the custom veneers in place.
Crowns
If the chip on your tooth is severe or you have significant pain when eating/drinking, a crown may be what you need. This is a bit more invasive than the other options, but most common and long lasting. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers your tooth to protect and improve the appearance of your tooth. This process includes anesthesia or sedation to ensure comfortability. The teeth need to be prepared for the crown, and then take an impression to have a mold made. A temporary crown will be used until the final impression comes in and can be bonded to the teeth in the second appointment.
Overall, whether your chip concerns are small to severe, there are several options to help. Prescott Dentistry wants to ensure that your cosmetic needs are addressed and the cracked chip gets fixed for you to embrace your true smile!
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (6/19/2017) A Silly Person (Flickr)