Chipped a tooth? It happens! Maybe you were enjoying a crunchy snack, or perhaps it was just bad luck. Whatever the cause, a chipped tooth can be annoying and make you self-conscious. The good news is, there are several ways we can fix it right here in the 33436 area. Let’s explore your options for chipped tooth repair and get your smile back on track.

Chipped Tooth Repair: Options for Restoring Your Smile in 33436

What to Do Immediately After Chipping a Tooth

Okay, so you’ve chipped a tooth. First things first, don’t panic! Here’s what you should do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
• If there’s bleeding, apply pressure with a clean gauze or cloth.
• Save the broken piece of tooth if you can find it. Sometimes we can reattach it!
• Call us at 561-677-9080 to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
• If you are experiencing pain, take an over the counter pain reliever.

Your Chipped Tooth Repair Options at Dorris Dental

At Dorris Dental, located at 12658 S Military Trl Suite 104, Boynton Beach, FL 33436, we offer several effective treatments for chipped teeth. The best option for you will depend on the size and location of the chip, as well as your budget and preferences.

1. Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a popular and relatively inexpensive option. Here’s how it works:

• We apply a tooth-colored resin material to the chipped area.
• The resin is then hardened with a special light.
• Finally, we shape and polish the bonded area to match your natural tooth.

Ideal for: Small chips and cracks.

Pros: Quick, affordable, and minimally invasive.

Cons: Not as durable as other options; may stain over time. Dental sealants may also be a good option depending on your circumstances.

2. Dental Veneers

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the entire front surface of a tooth. Veneers can fix chipped teeth and also improve the color, shape, and size of your teeth.

• A small amount of enamel is removed from the front of the tooth.
• We take an impression of your tooth and send it to a lab to create the veneer.
• Once the veneer is ready, we bond it to your tooth.

Ideal for: More significant chips, cracks, or discoloration.

Pros: Durable, natural-looking, and stain-resistant.

Cons: More expensive than bonding; irreversible as it requires removing some tooth enamel.

3. Dental Crowns

A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the entire tooth. It’s a more extensive restoration than bonding or veneers.

• We reshape the tooth to make room for the crown.
• An impression is taken to create a custom crown.
• A temporary crown is placed while the permanent one is being made.
• The permanent crown is then cemented onto the tooth.

Ideal for: Large chips, cracks, or weakened teeth. Maybe you need a crown.

Pros: Very durable, protects the tooth from further damage.

Cons: Most expensive option; requires removing a significant amount of tooth structure.

4. Dental Implants

If the chip is severe and the tooth can’t be saved, we may recommend a dental implant. It’s a long-term solution for replacing a missing tooth.

• A titanium post is surgically implanted into the jawbone.
• After healing, an abutment (connector) is attached to the implant.
• A custom-made crown is then placed on the abutment.

Ideal for: Replacing a tooth that is severely damaged and cannot be saved.

Pros: Durable, natural-looking, and functional.

Cons: Most invasive and time-consuming option.

Preventing Chipped Teeth

While accidents happen, there are things you can do to minimize your risk of chipping a tooth:

• Wear a mouthguard when playing sports.
• Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy.
• Address teeth grinding (bruxism) with a nightguard.
• Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing.
• See us for regular checkups and cleanings.

FAQs About Chipped Tooth Repair

Here are some common questions we hear about chipped teeth:

Q: Will my insurance cover chipped tooth repair?

A: Most dental insurance plans will cover at least a portion of the cost of chipped tooth repair. Check your specific plan details or contact our office, and we can help you understand your benefits. We work with many insurance providers, and we also offer financing options to make treatment more accessible.

Q: How long does chipped tooth repair last?

A: The lifespan of your repair depends on the type of treatment. Dental bonding may last 3-10 years, veneers can last 10-15 years, and crowns can last even longer with proper care.

Q: Is chipped tooth repair painful?

A: Most chipped tooth repair procedures are relatively painless. We’ll use local anesthesia to numb the area if needed. Some patients experience minor sensitivity after the procedure, but this usually subsides quickly. We want your visit to be as comfortable as possible, so don’t hesitate to let us know if you are experiencing discomfort.

Q: How much does it cost to fix a chipped tooth?

A: The cost of fixing a chipped tooth varies depending on the procedure performed. Generally, bonding will be the least expensive while a dental implant will be the most expensive.

Q: Can a chipped tooth get infected?

A: Yes, a chipped tooth can become infected if bacteria enters the exposed inner layers of the tooth. It’s essential to get it treated promptly to prevent infection and further damage.

Ready to Restore Your Smile?

Don’t let a chipped tooth keep you from smiling! At Dorris Dental, we’re dedicated to providing top-quality dental care to our patients in Boynton Beach and the surrounding areas. We’ll work with you to determine the best treatment option for your specific needs and budget. We understand that addressing dental issues can sometimes feel overwhelming, so we’re here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you’re ready to explore your options for fixing a chipped tooth, we encourage you to book a consultation with us or give us a call at 561-677-9080 today!

We’re here to help you get your smile back! Contact us today to learn more about chipped tooth repair in 33436.