Having a chipped tooth will not only ruin your perfect smile but will also be a cause for concern when your tooth gets damaged further or becomes infected. Luckily, your dentist can offer dental bridges in Decatur, AL, that will help cover your chipped tooth. If you’re not sure whether to get them or not, there are other ways how to fix a chipped tooth.

How to Deal with a Chipped Tooth

Tooth Extraction and Dental Implant

When the chipped tooth can’t be saved with other methods, the best option that you can take is to have it extracted and replaced with a dental implant. This method is only used in severe cases as any dentist will prefer not to pull an otherwise healthy tooth. It is often recommended by dentists when the chip or the crack of the tooth extends below the gum line.

The process involves removing the chipped tooth and replacing it with an implant that functions like a natural tooth.

Dental Cap or Crown

Whenever there’s a large portion of the tooth that has been chipped off or if there’s already some form of tooth decay happening on the tooth, the best solution is to cover it with a crown. Dental crowns can save the remaining tooth from further damage by enclosing it with porcelain or resin crowns if the root is still intact and free from any form of damage. Another benefit of dental crowns is that you can choose from the following types:

• All-metal
• Ceramic
• Resin
• Porcelain

Filling or Bonding

One common solution for fixing a chipped tooth is filling or bonding the hole with tooth enamel or tooth-colored composite resin. During the filling process, your dentist will remove the cavities that have formed on the chip of your tooth before filling it with tooth enamel. Bonding involves applying adhesive material on the chipped part of your teeth before placing the tooth-colored composite resin to hide the chip.

Veneers

Veneers are the go-to option for those who are looking for a stylish approach to fixing a chipped tooth. This popular cosmetic is made up of either porcelain or composite resin that forms a thin shell that covers the front tooth. Veneers are specially created to cover damage to the front tooth and are highly customizable to match your specific needs.

Root Canal

If the damage of the chip extends to the pulp of the tooth your dentist will likely recommend root canal therapy. A damaged pulp can cause a wide variety of oral health complications such as infection, bacteria build-up, and tooth sensitivity. Luckily, with the help of a root canal procedure, your dentist will remove the dead or damaged pulp, clean it, and then seal the damaged tooth.

Dental Sealants

If the damage of your tooth is small and there’s no sign of infection or cavities on the surface, your dentist may recommend dental sealants to fix the hole. Dental sealants serve as a barrier against bacteria causing agents and it further protects the chipped area from further damage.

Know Everything There Is to Know About Dental Bridges in Decatur, AL

Regular visits to your dentist are always a great investment for your oral health. Get in touch with our dentists today at Terry Family Dentistry!