It’s not a good feeling when you glance in the mirror and notice a chipped tooth. The smile you once enjoyed now has a jagged edge that cuts into your mouth and bothers you every time you see it. Don’t panic! Your cosmetic dentist in Appleton, WI, offers several easy answers to your chipped tooth problem. Many of them can be completed in a single visit.
Fixes for chipped teeth include:
- Dental bonding completed in one visit
- Porcelain veneers for larger chips
- Dental crowns for severely damaged teeth
Immediate Concerns: Why a Chipped Tooth Needs Attention
Alongside the cosmetic issue, a chipped tooth can create oral health problems. The rough edge where the tooth is chipped might cut your tongue or cheek. A chipped tooth might also allow bacteria to sneak into the tooth structure. Even a minor chip can weaken your tooth over time, making it vulnerable to further damage.
The sooner you address a chip, the more options you have for repair.
The Single Visit Solution: A Fast Fix for Most Chips
Dental bonding can work wonders for most tooth chips. During this procedure, your dentist will take a tooth-colored composite resin and apply it directly to the damaged area, sculpting it to match your natural tooth shape. Then, they’ll harden the resin with a special light.
This solution works great for small or moderate chips. You’ll leave our office with a restored smile the very same day. The composite material blends in with your teeth, making the repair look like it’s been that way forever.
Long-Term Fixes for Severe Chips
Veneers are a great option for covering a larger chip in your tooth or for a tooth with multiple imperfections. Porcelain veneers are thin shells that your dentist bonds to the front of your tooth, where they act as a cover for any chips or imperfections. They do require two visits, as they are custom-made to fit your smile perfectly.
Veneers are durable and resist staining that happens from food and drinks, an elegant solution for fixing chips and changing the look of your smile.
Dental Crowns Restore Strength and Function
When a chip is severe enough to compromise a significant amount of your tooth structure, a crown is your best bet for keeping that tooth safe. A crown is a cap that covers the entire visible portion of your tooth, protecting it while restoring your full chewing function. Crowns are especially good for damaged back teeth that take part in heavy chewing.
Got a Chip? Your Cosmetic Dentist in Appleton is Ready to Help!
At Fox Valley Dental Center, our dental team is standing by and ready to help you get your chipped tooth fixed. Whether you need a simple bonding repair or a full restoration, we’ll answer your questions and get you set up for an appointment in no time. Call (920) 731-7717 to schedule your consultation today.