What To Do: Repairing a Chipped or Broken Tooth

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Experiencing a chipped or broken tooth can be alarming, but understanding the steps to take and the treatment options available can ease your concerns. At Chris E. Perkins, DDS & Associates in Kingwood, TX, we offer expert care for all your dental needs. Here’s everything you need to know about dealing with a chipped or broken tooth.

Causes and Initial Care for Chipped or Broken Teeth

Teeth can chip or break due to various reasons, including:

  • Biting down on hard substances like ice or hard candy
  • Trauma from accidents or sports injuries
  • Teeth grinding (bruxism)
  • Using teeth to open packages or bottles

Immediate Steps to Take

If you chip or break a tooth, follow these steps immediately:

  1. Rinse Your Mouth: Use warm salt water to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection.
  2. Stop Any Bleeding: Apply pressure with clean gauze if there's bleeding.
  3. Protect the Tooth: Cover any sharp edges with sugarless gum or dental wax to prevent injury to your mouth.
  4. Save the Pieces: If a piece of the tooth has broken off, keep it in milk or saliva and take it to your dentist.
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Treatment Options for a Chipped or Broken Tooth

At Chris E. Perkins, DDS & Associates, we provide a variety of dental services in Kingwood, Texas that can help to remedy your broken or chipped tooth.  Here are some common dental treatments:

Dental Bonding

For minor chips, dental bonding is a simple and effective solution. A composite resin is applied to the chipped area, molded to match the shape of the tooth, and hardened with a special light. This procedure is quick and typically doesn't require anesthesia.

Dental Veneers

For more visible front teeth, veneers might be the best option. These thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials cover the front surface of the tooth, providing a natural look and feel.

Dental Crowns

If a significant portion of the tooth is broken, a crown might be necessary. Crowns cover the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, and function. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain and metal.

Root Canal Therapy

If the damage exposes the tooth's pulp, a root canal may be required. This procedure removes the damaged pulp, cleans and seals the tooth, and is usually followed by placing a crown to protect the tooth from further damage.

Temporary Home Remedies

While waiting to see a dentist, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers and dental wax to cover sharp edges. Avoid using the damaged tooth for chewing and stick to soft foods (NewMouth) (Interdent) (Dentaly.org) .

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FAQs About Chipped or Broken Teeth in Kingwood, TX

What should I do if my tooth chips and I'm not in pain?

Even if you're not in pain, it's crucial to see a dentist. A chipped tooth can still be at risk of infection or further damage (Humana) .

Can a chipped tooth heal on its own?

A chipped tooth cannot heal on its own. Professional dental treatment is necessary to restore the tooth's function and appearance (Cleveland Clinic) .

How much does it cost to fix a chipped tooth?

The cost varies based on the severity of the chip and the treatment required.  You should contact us immediately to schedule an emergency dental appointment and let our dentists in Kingwood Houston, TX evaluate the tooth as soon as possible.

Is it safe to file a sharp edge of a chipped tooth at home?

Filing a tooth at home is not recommended as it can cause further damage. Always seek professional dental care for any adjustments needed (NewMouth) .

At Chris E. Perkins, DDS & Associates, we are committed to providing top-notch dental care to our community in Kingwood, TX. If you have a chipped or broken tooth, contact us immediately to schedule an appointment and ensure your oral health is in the best hands.

Chris E. Perkins, DDS & Associates | Your Dentist in Kingwood, TX

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