Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry for Chipped Teeth
Chipped teeth will not necessarily impair your dental function, but they can drastically compromise the aesthetics of your smile. In some cases, chips can weaken your teeth, and you may eventually sustain more severe structural damage. Our doctors at Dowtown Dentists offer several restorative dentistry treatments to repair chipped teeth. Cosmetic care can also address chips and enhance the overall appearance of your smile. The right treatment for you will depend on the severity of the chips, your cosmetic goals, and your budget. Whichever procedure you select, you will enjoy a renewed smile and self-confidence when the treatment is complete. To learn more about your treatment options for chipped teeth, contact our Houston, TX practice today.
Conservative Treatment for Chipped Teeth
In many cases, the doctors at Downtown Dentist can reattach the piece of your tooth that has broken off. However, you will require immediate care for this treatment to be a viable option. Save the broken piece and store it in a container of milk or saliva. When you come in to the office, Dr. Sutherland may be able to attach it to your tooth with composite resin.
If your tooth has been chipped for some time, or if the missing piece is too large for reattachment, bonding on its own can be a good option. The doctors at Downtown Dentist will use composite resin to fill in the chip and restore the natural shape of your tooth. He will choose a color of composite that harmonizes with your smile. He will also carefully shape the material for a smooth finish. When he is done, Dr. Sutherland will use a special light to cure the material, and he will lightly polish your tooth.
Dental Crowns for Severely Chipped Teeth
Dental crowns are larger restorations, so the doctors at Downtown Dentist typically recommend this treatment for teeth with large chips. A crown can also be appropriate if you have dental nerve damage as a result of your chipped tooth. We offer several types of crowns, including metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and all-porcelain restorations. Whenever possible, the doctors at Downtown Dentist recommends metal-free white crowns, especially if he is treating your front teeth.
To place a crown, the doctors at Downtown Dentist will reshape your chipped tooth, providing a sturdy base for the restoration. He will take impressions of your tooth so that our lab can create a restoration that offers a great fit. In about two weeks, the lab will send the crown back to our office, and Dr. Sutherland will attach it to your tooth.
Porcelain Veneers to Conceal Chips and Other Imperfections
Porcelain veneers can fully cover small to medium-sized chips. They can also address other cosmetic concerns simultaneously, making them a great option if you want to transform your smile. First, the doctors at Downtown Dentist will trim off about half a millimeter of dental enamel. In this way, he can keep the veneers from looking bulky, and he can also create a more secure bonding surface. Then he will take impressions and send them to our dental lab. While you are waiting, he will typically provide temporaries to preserve the look of your smile. When the veneers are finished, Dr. Sutherland will remove the temporary veneers, lightly etch your teeth, and apply the thin porcelain shells.
Find the Best Treatment for Your Chipped Teeth
Do not let chipped teeth compromise your appearance and self-confidence. Contact us today to book a consultation and begin restoring your beautiful smile.