How to Fix a Chipped Tooth
A chipped tooth can be the result of several factors, including injuries, accidents, tooth decay, or simply biting down too hard when eating. Regardless of the cause, anyone who’s suffered from a chipped tooth knows this condition can both cause discomfort and disrupt the quality of the smile. Thankfully, chipped teeth are generally treatable in the hands of a top cosmetic dentist like David R. Newkirk, DDS. With nearly 30 years of experience in the full breadth of general, reconstructive, and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Newkirk has used the treatments described below to repair chipped teeth for countless patients.
Often, dental bonding is the first potential solution Dr. Newkirk will consider for a chipped tooth. This minimally invasive procedure can be an excellent option for smaller or less severe chips. Dr. Newkirk performs dental bonding by applying a tooth-colored composite resin to the chipped area and fusing the material to the tooth with light-activated accelerators. Once this step is finished, he polishes the final result for a natural-looking effect.
If the chipped tooth is somewhat more severe, you may be better suited for one of our all-porcelain crowns. Possibly the most versatile and widely-used type of dental restoration, crowns (also referred to as “caps”) are placed directly over a tooth to preserve its strength, protect it from further damage, and enhance its appearance. As such, crowns can be ideal for chips in the teeth, as well as other common concerns like cracks or damage from advanced tooth decay.
Alternatively, patients with chipped teeth may be candidates for porcelain veneers. These are among the most sought-after cosmetic dental options on the market due to their ability to seamlessly match the smile – especially when crafted from beautiful, lifelike porcelain. Veneers are thin, durable strips of material that are bonded to the visible part of the tooth to mask concerns such as chips, cracks, discoloration, and much more. Dr. Newkirk is world-famous for his veneers, having even used them on members of the Saudi royal family!
For more information about treating a chipped tooth, please don’t hesitate to contact our practice today.