To Fix or Not to Fix: What Should I Do About a Chipped Tooth?

Ouch! A chipped tooth can happen in an instant—whether you bite down on something hard, slip and fall, or get caught by a stray ball in sports. Unfortunately, many people are unaware that teeth don’t heal like the rest of their body. This may lead them to ignore the chip until it’s too late. But why is it such a big deal? Do you always need to go to the dentist to fix a small chip? Continue reading to find everything you need to know about chipped teeth and why getting treatment quickly is important.

Teeth Don’t Regenerate

Unlike your skin or bones, your teeth can’t regenerate or heal themselves once they’re damaged. This is because the enamel that covers your teeth, while incredibly strong, doesn’t contain living cells. Once a tooth is chipped, the damage is permanent, and it won’t improve without professional treatment.

A Small Chip Can Lead to Big Problems

Even if your tooth chip seems minor, leaving it untreated can lead to more severe problems. Enamel damage of any kind can weaken your tooth, making it more susceptible to cracking, breaking, or decay. And it’s not just the tooth that’s in danger! Sharp edges from the damaged area can irritate or cut your tongue, lips, or cheek, causing stress and the potential for infection.

Dental Implants for Multiple Teeth

When a tooth is chipped, the protective enamel is compromised, leaving the inner layers of the tooth exposed. This can increase the risk of infection, decay, and sensitivity. A tooth infection can cause pain, swelling, and even the need for a root canal if left untreated. Sensitivity is less serious but can become more disruptive and uncomfortable the longer it goes unaddressed.

Should I See a Dentist?

If you’ve chipped a tooth, it’s best to schedule a dental appointment as soon as you can. Even if the damage seems trivial, addressing it early can prevent the complications mentioned above, restore your appearance, and keep your tooth healthy. Ignoring a chipped tooth may result in more pain, more damage, or the need for more extensive treatment later on.

While a chipped tooth won’t heal on its own, the good news is that your dentist can easily fix it with the right treatment! Dental bonding, inlays and onlays, crowns, and other options are all at your dentist’s disposal to restore your smile. By addressing the issue quickly, you’ll protect your tooth from further damage and keep your grin looking gorgeous!

About the Author

Dr. S. John Salivonchik is a talented dentist with over two decades of experience assisting his patients with issues great and small. He earned his dental doctorate from Temple Dental School and has continued to hone his skills through advanced training and continuing education ever since. If you’ve got a chip in your tooth, call (610) 502-1545 to schedule an appointment at S. John Salivonchik, DMD, PC. You can also visit our website to learn more about all our services.