Dentist in Highland Park IL Advises on How to Fix a Chipped Tooth

Be honest, do you ever use your teeth to open packages, chew on ice, or eat very hard foods? If you said yes to any of the above, there’s a good chance that you’re at a high risk of chipping a tooth. Having a chipped tooth not only causes pain, but makes people self-conscious about their smile.

According Steven N. Kacel, D.D.S., M.A.G.D., F.A.D.I., your local dentist near Highland Park IL, a chipped tooth should be fixed as soon as possible. If left unchecked the pain will get worse, and the chip could get bigger. It’s important to set up an appointment right away.

What To Do First

Not everyone can just drop everything and book the next appointment with their dentist. Since it may take a few days before you can be seen, it’s important to care for your chipped tooth in the meantime. Consider purchasing an over the counter pain medication to ease the pain and reduce swelling. Rinsing your mouth is crucial, because it helps remove food particles that may be stuck in the serrated tops of the cracked tooth. If the pain persists, consider applying an icepack indirectly. Once you get to the dentist, there are a few options to choose from to help fix your tooth.

Bonding

This procedure is suitable for small and uncomplicated chips. The method is simple – it involves molding a tooth-colored material over the unhealthy area of the tooth to fix the chip. Your dentist near Highland Park IL will roughen up the enamel first, and then shape the material so that it is natural-looking. Blue light is used to set the material instantly. When bonding is properly cared for, it can last up to ten years.

Veneers

A dentist in Highland Park IL, ( Dr.Kacel), may recommend veneers for severe cosmetic issues. Veneers are porcelain covers that are placed in front of your teeth. After the application, you’re left with a natural looking smile. While they can be quite expensive, veneers can last for up to 20 years with good oral hygiene habits.

Crowns

Crowns are most often applied when the crack has led to the loss of a significant portion of the tooth. Similar to veneers, crowns are made of porcelain. However, crowns work a little differently. Veneers cover the front of the affected tooth, and crowns cover the entire tooth.  

Dental Implants

For teeth that have cracked at the gum-line surface, your trusted cosmetic dentist near Highland Park IL suggests extraction and replacement..The implant gives the patient a similar look and feeling to a real tooth.

A chipped tooth is an all-too-common dental problem. However, it can be taken care of quickly if you contact your dentist as soon as it occurs. With proper care, you can be back to a perfect smile before you know it.