How does a dentist treat a chipped or broken tooth ?

The treatment for a chipped or broken tooth will depend on the extent of the damage. Here are some common treatments that a dentist may use to repair a chipped or broken tooth:

Dental bonding: For minor chips, your dentist may apply a tooth-colored composite resin material to the affected tooth and shape it to match the natural contours of your teeth. This is known as dental bonding.

Dental veneers: If the chip is more significant, your dentist may recommend a dental veneer, which is a thin, custom-made shell that is placed over the front of the affected tooth. Veneers are made of porcelain or composite resin and can improve the appearance of chipped or broken teeth.

Dental crown: If the tooth is severely damaged, your dentist may suggest a dental crown, which is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over the damaged tooth. The crown can restore the tooth’s strength, shape, and function.

Root canal: If the chip or break has exposed the tooth’s pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, a root canal may be necessary. During a root canal, your dentist will remove the damaged pulp, clean the root canal, and fill it with a rubber-like material to seal it.

Dental implant: In cases where the tooth cannot be saved, your dentist may suggest a dental implant. A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jawbone and is topped with a dental crown to replace the missing tooth.

It is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible after a tooth chip or break to assess the damage and determine the appropriate treatment.

Modern Smiles Dental Care
Burlington MA Dentist Sarita Malhotra, BDS, DMD, practices a full scope of general and cosmetic dentistry with expertise ranging from porcelain veneers to dental implants, crowns and bridges. Dr. Malhotra can now correct a wide variety of so-called permanent cosmetic dental problems, and can literally redesign your smile.