Chipped Tooth? Don’t Ignore It.
No chipped tooth is the same. Just like any other type of fracture or break in your body, the severity and location can vary greatly from person to person. A chipped tooth is a tooth that has a small piece of enamel or dentin missing, usually as a result of trauma, such as biting down on something hard or receiving a blow to the face. The chip may be barely noticeable or can be large enough to expose the inner layer of the tooth, known as dentin.
When it comes to tooth chips, you may assume that a minor one is not worth treating, especially if it is in the back of your mouth. The truth is however, there are some major threats that you are exposing yourself to if you choose to ignore or neglect a chipped tooth.
The Risk of Not Repairing a Chipped Tooth
At Laguna West Dental Care, we don’t want our patients to suffer the consequences of neglected tooth damage, which may include painful symptoms or future oral health problems. Not treating a chipped tooth can lead to several risks, including:
Increased Risk of Infection
A chipped tooth can create an opening in the tooth enamel, allowing bacteria to enter and potentially cause an infection.
Tooth Decay
A chipped tooth can create an uneven surface that is difficult to clean, leading to the buildup of plaque and bacteria, which can cause tooth decay.
Sensitivity and Pain
A chipped tooth can expose the sensitive inner layer of the tooth, leading to sensitivity and pain when eating or drinking hot or cold foods.
Further Damage
If a chipped tooth is left untreated, it can worsen over time and lead to more extensive damage, such as a larger chip or a crack in the tooth.
Aesthetic Concerns
A chipped tooth can also affect the appearance of your smile, leading to self-consciousness and reduced confidence.
If you have damaged your tooth in any way, it important to let a dentist decide whether or not you need urgent treatment. In most cases, our chipped tooth repair at Laguna West Dental Care is simple and affordable, such as dental bonding.
Top Ways to Prevent Chipped Teeth
As your trusted partner in dental care, it’s our duty to share tips on how to protect your smile from unwanted damage. While we can’t always prevent a chipped tooth, here are some top ways you can lessen the chances of sudden dental fracture:
Wear a Mouthguard
If you participate in contact sports or other activities that put your teeth at risk of impact, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from chips, cracks, and other injuries.
Avoid Hard Foods
Try to avoid chewing on hard foods such as ice, hard candies, and popcorn kernels, as they can easily chip your teeth.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Your teeth are not designed to open bottles, tear off tags, or hold objects. Using your teeth for these purposes can easily chip or crack them.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing your teeth daily can help keep them strong and healthy, making them less susceptible to chipping.
Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental checkups can help detect any signs of tooth decay or damage before it becomes a bigger problem, and your dentist can recommend treatment to prevent further damage.
Need help preventing or repairing a chipped tooth? We can care for your entire family at Laguna West Dental Care. Call our Elk Grove dental team today for same day dentistry.