If you have a chipped tooth, you may first worry about the cosmetic implications of this injury. Losing part of your tooth can be embarrassing and significantly impact your smile. In other cases, a chip could be so small that you do not notice it. Because there are various degrees of this condition, it is difficult to know when to get treatment and when it is not necessary. It is helpful to understand what role the dentist plays and when you should seek help.
A chipped tooth can be the result of a hard blow to the face in an accident or sports injury. These situations may be impossible to foresee or prevent. However, there are other things a person can do to reduce the risk of having a chipped tooth. Brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush is vital to keeping teeth healthy and strong. Regular brushing keeps cavities away and also protects the tooth from damage. Visiting the dentist’s office at least every six months is another way to establish good oral health habits.
It may be the dentist who identifies tooth damage. This may be present on an X-ray, or the dentist may see it during an exam. Patients might notice the chip themselves, either by seeing it or feeling it with their tongue or cheek. There also might be pain and discomfort.
Before going to the dentist, there are steps a person can take to find relief. If the pain is intense, placing an ice pack on the area can reduce any inflammation. It can also feel soothing. Rinsing with a saline solution and warm water can also be effective.
The dentist has the knowledge and training to treat a chipped tooth, regardless of the severity of the injury. If the chip is small, bonding material or a filling might be enough to make the tooth whole once more. For more moderate-sized chips, a crown or veneer can restore the tooth’s natural shape and form. If there is severe damage, the dentist might first do a root canal to clean out infected, exposed roots and nerves.
Putting off a trip to see the dentist for this issue has negative effects. The longer the patient waits to treat the tooth, the more prone it is to become infected or decayed. The dentist can also provide fast pain relief by cleaning and disinfecting the tooth. Treating it with a crown or veneer also prevents further damage. There are no long-term at-home solutions to repair this condition, so seeing the dentist is the wisest approach.
Even if your chipped tooth is not causing pain, there is no reason to resist going to the dentist’s office. The dentist can restore your smile and help you feel good about your appearance. Plus, with various treatments, you can avoid larger problems. Make an appointment today to address your needs.
Are you considering fixing a chipped tooth in the New Windsor area? Get more information at https://advanceddentalofnewwindsor.com.
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