Should I See a Dentist About My Chipped Tooth?

Dental emergencies can range in severity. While a knocked-out tooth requires immediate attention, a soft tissue laceration may only require clean gauze and a cold compress. But what about a chipped tooth? Isn’t it possible for this type of damage to heal on its own? Is seeing a dentist really necessary? A local dental professional explains that although you may not need a same-day dental appointment, you should still plan to seek a dental expert to treat your chipped tooth.

Causes of a Chipped Tooth

There are several reasons you may experience a chipped tooth such as teeth grinding (bruxism) or some types of facial injury. This can include a car accident, contact sport, or even a sudden fall. Typically, when this type of dental emergency occurs, it doesn’t require that you see your dentist the same day; however, you can expect that your dental team will recommend you come in for an appointment within two or three days.

Although you may feel a bit of discomfort initially, it will typically go away if you are taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. However, over time, you may begin to notice that the tooth looks discolored or loses some of its functionality. Should this happen, or you begin to notice swelling or sensitivity, it’s essential that you get in right away to see your dentist.

Reasons for Timely Care

There is a common misconception that chipped teeth will heal on their own, but the truth is that once tooth enamel is damaged or decayed, it cannot be replaced. While remineralization can occur with the help of fluoride treatments and similar solutions, it cannot fully be restored to its natural state.

Choosing to disregard timely treatment can put you at risk for further damage and infection, both of which will result in timely and costly dental care. It’s always better to seek the help of a professional sooner rather than later, especially when it comes to your smile. Why? Because it is the first thing people notice about you.

Depending on the severity of the chip, you may only need cosmetic bonding to hide the imperfection. However, if the chip is severe and hinders the functionality of the tooth, it may be necessary to undergo root canal therapy before receiving a customized dental crown. Your dentist might also recommend tooth extraction if the damage is so bad that the structure cannot be saved. Afterward, you can expect to discuss ways to replace the tooth and restore your complete smile.

It’s important never to downplay a chipped tooth. Seeking timely care will ensure that your smile continues to look and feel its best no matter the level of damage.

About the Author
Dr. Mark Simeone and his team at Chester County Dental Arts are committed to providing restorative and emergency dental care to individuals needing help with damaged or decayed teeth. When a chipped tooth causes you to make an appointment, you can trust that we will administer appropriate care in a timeframe that benefits you and your smile. If you are unsure whether to seek help for your dental injury, contact us at (610) 383-1600.