If you have a cracked, chipped, or damaged tooth, you’re far from alone. Cosmetic problems with teeth are an increasingly common problem. Overall, nearly half of all adults in the United States have a cracked, chipped, or fractured tooth. When you have a chipped tooth, it’s more than simply a cosmetic issue. A chipped tooth can lead to more serious issues, such as a fractured tooth or structural damage that requires extraction.
When you have a chipped tooth, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. In the early stages, a chipped tooth can be treated with minimally invasive procedures. However, when left unaddressed, a chipped tooth can lead to other damage and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
What is a Chipped Tooth?
Even though having a chipped tooth is relatively common, many people who have a damaged tooth wait to get treatment. A chipped tooth can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- An impact injury or accident
- Chewing something hard
- Medical problems
- Gum disease
When you chip a tooth, it can cause structural damage. If you had an impact-related injury, the damage may require cosmetic dentistry services. When a tooth is damaged, it causes your bite to adjust. Since a chipped tooth causes your mouth to place increased pressure on your remaining healthy teeth, a damaged tooth can lead to mouth pain and improper alignment. Another problem commonly seen with people who have a chipped tooth is an increased risk of infection and tooth decay. When your tooth is damaged, it’s more exposed to things like bacteria and other harmful particles.
Providing exposure for bacteria to penetrate your tooth and other areas of your mouth can lead to infections and gum disease. A chipped tooth can also look unsightly and cause you to hide your teeth or avoid smiling, which can lead to a lack of confidence or anxiety.
How a Chipped Tooth is Treated
When one of your teeth is damaged, your dentist can help repair it. A chipped tooth can be treated with a porcelain coating that protects your tooth. Since a chipped tooth can damage the exterior of your tooth and your protective enamel, a dentist can use a porcelain veneer or coating to repair the missing portion of your tooth.
A porcelain coating or veneer gives your tooth a natural look and can also hide and cover up discoloration. Porcelain is more durable than dental bonding in Rogers, Arkansas, which helps create a natural look that is long-lasting. Treating a chipped tooth also ensures that you don’t experience complications, such as misalignment or tooth pain. Having a natural-looking fix to your cracked tooth can also give you a great smile.
Connecting with a Dentist Today
Proper oral care is one of the best ways to improve and protect your overall health. When you suffer from a chipped tooth, you can feel embarrassed and try to hide the damaged tooth. Luckily, dental treatments ensure that a chipped or fractured tooth doesn’t have to prevent you from showing off your smile. To find out more about chipped tooth treatments, or to schedule an appointment with one of our dentists, contact us today at 479.464.0900.
