Chipping your teeth is one of the most disturbing experiences you can have, whether the chip is visible or not. A chip on a back tooth can be jagged, causing you to damage your mouth’s soft tissue. It can also create a variety of dental issues.
And if the chip is on a front tooth that’s visible? You have all of those same problems plus feeling self-conscious. This is why knowing how to fix a chipped tooth is so important.
Your first step to repairing tooth damage is contacting your dentist. A chipped tooth isn’t something you can or should try to fix at home. It requires the skills of an experienced professional.
In most cases, you’ll have a few options for fixing your chipped tooth. All have pros and cons, so it’s important to know which option is best for you based on general information and guidance from your dentist. What are your options for fixing a chipped tooth?
Bonding
Dental bonding involves putting a tooth-coloured resin over a damaged tooth and allowing it to harden with a special light to repair or improve its appearance.
Bonding is quick and can usually be completed in as little as one dental office visit. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly options for fixing chipped teeth. It results in a natural-looking tooth that blends in with your other teeth.
The downside of bonding is that it’s not permanent. Eventually, you’ll likely need to touch up or replace bonding, with the repair usually needing attention within 10 years.
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front of a tooth, hiding chips and creating a natural-looking smile.
Veneers are durable, but they aren’t permanent. They usually last about 10 to 15 years. They’re stain-resistant, so you don’t need to be concerned that the repaired tooth will discolour over time. It also ensures your natural tooth remains in place despite the damage. In most cases, this is a healthier option for your overall dental health.
Crowns
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. It’s an ideal fix for a chipped tooth.
Crowns last about the same amount of time as veneers – about 10 to 15 years with proper care. Their greatest benefit is how strong they are. If your tooth’s crack is severe and it’s affected the strength or foundation of the tooth, a crown can provide support.
Crowns also look natural because they are customized to match your natural teeth in shape and colour. Nobody will know you have a crown on your tooth unless you tell them.
Determining the Best Option for You
You and your dentist will consider several factors when determining which of these three options is best for repairing your chipped tooth. For example:
- Budget: Crowns and veneers are more expensive than bonding but last longer. If you currently have a limited budget, you’ll want to opt for bonding with the intent of doing something longer-lasting down the road.
- Appearance: These options offer a seamless way to repair a tooth. However, based on your specific circumstances, one might look better than another. If the tooth you’ve cracked is visible, you’ll likely want to choose the most cosmetically appealing option.
- Durability: If not undergoing another dental procedure in a few years is your main concern, you’re better off choosing veneers or crowns. Bonding can last up to 10 years, but most people need a retouch within this time. Chances are, with crowns and veneers, you’ll get at least 10 years, possibly more, before you need to undergo any maintenance.
Speak to Your Dentist
If you’d like to know more about repairing a chipped tooth or you’ve chipped a tooth that needs attention, we can help. We’re here to answer your questions, walk you through your options, and simplify the process. Contact us to book a consultation.
