Sometimes, life gives you an unexpected crunch. Suddenly, there it is – the tiniest crack in one of your pearly whites. But will a small chipped tooth smooth out on its own, or is it time to schedule a dentist appointment? It might seem harmless, but it’s not always that simple. Let’s explore when to let it be and when to see a professional.
Will a Small Chipped Tooth Smooth Out Eventually?
So, will a chipped tooth smooth out after a while? If only a tiny bit has been chipped, it’s entirely possible for it to smooth out naturally over time, thanks to saliva. Soon enough, you won’t be able to even notice the small chip on your tongue.
Does a Chipped Tooth Heal?
Will a chipped tooth heal? It’s the first question that pops up as soon as you hear that unwanted crunch. As we’ve just mentioned, a tiny chip can eventually smooth out and heal, but realistically, even the smallest of them should be checked out by your Charlotte dentist in SouthPark.
No matter how insignificant it might seem, once a part of your tooth is gone, it can never grow back again. Sure, there have been some significant breakthroughs concerning enamel regeneration. But until this is actually put into practice, we’ve got to do everything we can to keep our teeth healthy. This starts with scheduling regular dental cleanings and exams.
How Do Small Chips in Teeth Happen Anyway?
Most chips happen from unfortunate accidents, such as biting down on a popcorn kernel while enjoying movie night. However, teeth can also chip simply from everyday wear and tear. Their outer layer, enamel, might be the hardest tissue in the body, but constant chewing and grinding can slowly wear them down.
What Makes Teeth More Susceptible to Chipping?
If the teeth are weak or brittle, for whatever reason, it makes them much more susceptible to damage. A common culprit here is a condition known as bruxism, which involves teeth grinding. It wears down enamel, affecting the integrity of your pearly whites.
What Are the Risks of a Chipped Tooth?
A tiny chip might seem harmless at first, especially if it’s not causing any tooth sensitivity. It’s easy to just go on with your usual routine. However, even the smallest chip can stir up trouble if left unchecked!
Firstly, sharp edges can lead to unexpected cuts on your tongue or inner cheek – not exactly a fun surprise. Plus, it might expose your tooth to bacteria since the protective enamel is no longer fully intact. In the worst-case scenario, this leads to a tooth infection.
Regular dental appointments are your best friend here. Even if you think there’s nothing to worry about, it’s still best to consult your Charlotte, NC, dentist. Don’t wait for a minor chip to turn into a major problem!
Big or Small, Aspire Dental Wellness Can Find the Solution
Whether we like it or not, small chips are a quintessential part of the human experience. The real difference is in what you do about it. Spoiler alert – it should be consulting your cosmetic dentist in Charlotte, NC.
Our practice of advanced cosmetic & laser dentistry in Charlotte, NC, offers tailored solutions for each unique smile. For the smallest of chips, we can simply smooth out the edges and make sure the affected tooth blends in seamlessly with the rest. For more intricate cases, we’ve got several treatments available.
Fillings Fix and Blend Strong Smiles
Dental fillings are a pretty common treatment – in fact, the average American has three fillings! Even with the most thorough oral hygiene routine, most adults will need at least one dental filling at some point.
Fillings restore the function of the affected tooth and prevent further decay, all while giving you a little smile makeover in the process. There are a couple of different types of fillings out there:
- Composite fillings – made from a tooth-colored resin, these blend seamlessly with natural teeth,
- Gold fillings – a high-quality, long-lasting option that’s crafted from gold alloy.
Dental Crowns Offer a Natural-Looking Solution
For bigger chips, dental crowns are the go-to solution. These custom-made caps restore the tooth’s shape and size, literally giving it a new lease on life. Made from durable materials, including porcelain, dental crowns are designed to blend right in with your natural smile. You get strength and style all in one!
Veneers Can Also Get You That Picture-Perfect Smile
Dental veneers are ultra-thin shells designed to give your teeth a fresh, flawless look. They fit snugly over the front of your teeth, making them ideal for hiding chips, brightening discoloration, and even tackling minor teeth alignment issues. Built to last, veneers can be the ultimate upgrade for your smile, depending on the size and location of the chip.
Our Team Will Help You Keep Your Smile Smooth and Strong!
As we’ve discussed, even a tiny chip can make a big impact on your overall dental health. So, don’t wait around hoping it will smooth out on its own. Contact us today – we’ll gladly take a look at what’s going on and offer you a tailored solution. With the Aspire Dental Wellness team, led by Dr. Sladjana Bjelac and committed to the practice of a holistic approach, your smile will be well on its way to becoming strong and radiant once again!
