Chipped Tooth: Discussing The Causes and How to Fix it
That sudden, sharp feeling followed by a rough edge – discovering a chipped tooth can be alarming. But don't worry, if you're in Brighton or the surrounding areas like Brighton East or Hampton, your friendly local dentist at Brighton Dental Group on New Street is here to help! Understanding the common causes of a chipped tooth and the effective ways we can fix it is the first step towards restoring your confident smile.
So, what exactly leads to a chipped tooth? There are several culprits, and sometimes it's a combination of factors. Here are some of the most frequent reasons we see chipped teeth in our new patients and existing clients:
Trauma or Accidents: This is perhaps the most obvious cause. A direct blow to the face during sports, a fall, a car accident, or even bumping into something can easily chip a tooth.
Biting Down on Hard Foods or Objects: That satisfying crunch might come at a cost! Biting into hard candies, ice, nuts with shells, or even using your teeth to open bottles can put excessive pressure on your enamel, leading to a chip.
Tooth Decay: Cavities weaken the tooth structure. Even a minor force on a decayed tooth can cause it to chip or break. Regular check-ups with your Brighton dentist are crucial for detecting and treating decay early.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Many people unknowingly grind or clench their teeth, especially during sleep. This constant pressure can weaken the enamel over time, making teeth more susceptible to chipping.
Large Fillings: While fillings repair damaged teeth, large fillings can sometimes weaken the remaining tooth structure, increasing the risk of chipping or fracture.
Sudden Temperature Changes: While less common, extreme and rapid temperature changes in the mouth (like drinking something very cold immediately after something very hot) can cause the enamel to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks or chips.
Now for the good news: a chipped tooth doesn't have to be a permanent problem! Your skilled dentist Brighton at our conveniently located clinic on New Street, close to Bay Street and Church Street, has several effective solutions to restore your tooth's appearance and function. The best treatment option will depend on the size and location of the chip, as well as your overall oral health. Here are some common fixes we offer:
Dental Bonding: For small chips, dental bonding is a quick and relatively inexpensive solution. We use a tooth-colored resin material that is applied, shaped, and hardened to seamlessly blend with your natural tooth.
Dental Veneers: For more significant chips or if you're looking to improve the overall appearance of your tooth (including color and shape), a porcelain veneer might be the ideal solution. These thin, custom-made shells are bonded to the front surface of your tooth, providing a natural and durable restoration.
Dental Crowns: If the chip is large and has significantly weakened the tooth, a dental crown might be necessary. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of your tooth, providing strength, protection, and restoring its shape and function.
Dental Filling: In some cases, if the chip is related to tooth decay, removing the decay and placing a filling can restore the tooth's integrity.
If you've recently chipped a tooth in Brighton, don't delay in seeking professional dental care. Early intervention can prevent further damage and ensure a more straightforward and often less costly solution. At Brighton Dental Group, we prioritize providing prompt and effective care for dental emergencies like chipped teeth. Contact our friendly team on New Street today to schedule an appointment and let us help you get your smile back on track! We're your trusted local dentist, dedicated to the oral health of our community.