Tooth enamel is the toughest tissue in the human body, but it does have its limits. You’re enjoying a snack when suddenly – oops, a piece of the tooth made a run for it! Now, you’re left wondering – with this tiny small chip in the tooth, should I go to the dentist? No matter how minuscule it might be, here’s why it deserves some attention to get your smile back on the healthy track!
I Have a Small Chip in the Tooth, Should I Go to the Dentist?
Even with a small chip on the tooth, scheduling a dentist appointment should be the next move. Don’t worry – it’s not a big deal, but consulting a professional is always a good idea. It might seem harmless at first, but it can weaken the tooth over time and lead to other complications. All in all, getting it checked early can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
How Do Small Chips in Teeth Usually Happen?
Life happens! You might trip on the sidewalk, take an unexpected elbow during a game, or bite into something a little too crunchy. It can happen when you least expect it – especially if they’ve already got a bit of decay going on. The damage is done, but luckily, your Charlotte dentist in SouthPark can get your smile back to its old glory.
What Are the Potential Complications of a Minor Chip in the Tooth?
I chipped my tooth a tiny bit, but I don’t even feel it – in such situations, it’s easy to just shrug it off. There’s no discomfort, and you can resume the daily routine more or less the same. But here’s the thing – even the smallest of chips can cause dental issues down the line.
For starters, the chip can be sharp enough to cut the cheek. More importantly, it can weaken the tooth, making it more likely to break further. And as that small chip turns into a bigger crack, you might start dealing with sensitivity or even a tooth infection.
So, why wait for things to get more serious? It’s always better to be safe than sorry with these kinds of things. Therefore, make sure to schedule a check-up with a dentist in Charlotte, NC, before that tiny chip becomes a big headache!
Here’s What You Should Do in the Meantime
As you’re waiting for the appointment, there’s no need to worry – you’ve made a smart move. In the meantime, here’s what you can do to make sure that chipped tooth doesn’t cause you any extra trouble:
- Mix 8 ounces of warm water and one teaspoon of salt and rinse your mouth with it,
- If a sharp edge exists, cover it with a tiny piece of wax paraffin or a sugarless chewing gum,
- Eat only soft foods and don’t chew on the side where there’s a chip.
Aspire Dental Wellness Offers Plenty of Solutions to a Chipped Smile
Every smile is as unique as the person wearing it! Because of that, our team, led by Dr. Sladjana Bjelac, takes the time to understand your needs and oral history. Thanks to that, we are able to create a treatment plan that’s customized just for you.
Our practice of general dentistry in Charlotte, NC, offers plenty of solutions. With our holistic approach, as well as the advanced cosmetic & laser dentistry treatments we provide, we can do so much more than just fix a chipped tooth. No matter if it’s a simple repair or a whole smile makeover, our team will make the whole ordeal as comfortable as possible – after all, that’s what our clinic is all about!
Small Chips Are Usually Fixed With Filling or Bonding
Dental fillings are one of the most common treatments out there. In fact, around 175 million of them are done each year in the US alone. All in all, even with the best possible oral hygiene routine, chances are, most people will need at least one filling in their lifetime.
Fillings help restore the function of a particular tooth and stop decay from developing further, all while giving a fresh new look to a smile. There are a couple of different types, but these days, composite fillings are super popular because they blend in with natural teeth. After all, who wouldn’t want a filling that’s barely noticeable?
There are also silver-colored amalgam fillings, which sometimes get a bad rep. However, the American Dental Association highlights amalgam as a safe, durable, and efficient cavity-filling option. At the end of the day, it’s all about what works best for your smile, and our team will make sure we find that perfect fit.
Dental Crowns Can Be Used for More Serious Cracks
When it’s more of a crack than a chip, dental crowns can be pretty effective in restoring the shape, size, and strength of the tooth. Of course, they help your smile not only feel great but look great as well, enhancing the appearance. Dental crowns can be made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, and they blend in seamlessly with the rest of the pearly whites.
Dental Veneers Are Another Effective Solution
Dental veneers are custom-made, thin shells that cover the teeth’s front, improving their appearance. They’re perfect for fixing issues like chips, as well as discoloration or problems with the teeth alignment. They’re durable, long-lasting, and can dramatically enhance your confidence, making them the perfect recipe for restoring your smile!
Don’t Let That Chip Get Away – Schedule the Appointment Today
Ready to get your smile back in shape? Our team at Aspire Dental Wellness is ready for it, too! Whether it’s a minor fix or something a bit more complex, our Charlotte, NC, dentist will make sure your teeth stay strong and healthy. You’re one call away from the smile of your dreams – so, contact us today, and let’s make the most of it!
