Breaking a tooth can happen for different reasons, like biting into something hard or accidents during sports. Aside from affecting how your smile looks and how confident you feel, broken teeth can cause oral health problems. While your body can sometimes fix itself, you might wonder if a broken tooth can heal on its own without needing to see a dentist right away. Keep reading to learn more.
Can a Chipped Tooth Get Better on Its Own?
The enamel, which is the strong outer layer of your teeth, is known as the hardest substance in the human body. But even though it’s tough, it can still get damaged. Unlike cuts and injuries that your body can heal on its own, a chipped tooth can’t fix itself naturally.
To keep your oral health in check and prevent problems like cavities and increased sensitivity, it’s important to schedule a dental visit as soon as possible, regardless of whether the chip is small or large. This step is crucial to maintain both the strength and the appearance of your smile.
What Treatments Can Fix a Chipped Tooth?
Luckily, your dentist has various treatments to fix a chipped tooth. Here are some options they might suggest:
- Dental bonding – In this procedure, your dentist uses a tooth-colored composite resin to fix the chipped tooth. This versatile treatment is effective not only for repairing chips but also for correcting cracks, gaps, misshapen teeth, alignment problems, and discoloration.
- Inlays and onlays – For teeth with moderate damage, customized dental restorations called inlays and onlays are suggested. These restorations fill the gap between a regular filling and a custom dental crown.
- Porcelain veneers – Veneers are thin shells crafted from high-quality dental-grade porcelain, designed to cover the entire front surface of a tooth. They effectively address various cosmetic concerns similar to dental bonding.
- Dental crowns – Designed to fit snugly over your natural teeth, these tooth-shaped caps aim to restore their original structure, function, and appearance.
While some body parts can self-heal, teeth do not possess this ability. A chipped tooth can jeopardize your oral health, underscoring the need for prompt dental care. Your dentist can quickly assess the issue, suggest the best course of action, and endeavor to restore your tooth’s integrity, ensuring a healthy and confident smile.
About the Practice
At Crownridge Dental & Orthodontics, our caring team of dental professionals is dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. We offer a wide range of services, including general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency treatments. This encompasses treatments to repair chipped teeth, ensuring your smile is revitalized quickly. If you’re interested in scheduling a consultation or learning more about repairing chipped teeth, feel free to reach out to Lake Forest Dental’s office at (972) 529-1800 or visit their website.