This article explores how dentists approach chipped tooth repair procedures, the materials they use in this work, and the typical repair process timings. However, it is crucial that you seek prompt dental care when you first chip or break a tooth. Getting to the dentist quickly will restore both your mouth aesthetics and maybe even your oral health.
Dentists’ Approach to Chipped Tooth Repair
Dentists use a range of techniques to repair chipped or broken teeth, depending on the severity of the damage. These include:
- Assessment and Diagnosis: Dentists begin by conducting a thorough examination, so they can evaluate the extent of the chipped tooth. The dentist may take X-Rays to identify any underlying damage that may affect a chipped tooth repair process.
- Bonding: For minor chips, dentists often use dental bonding, which is a procedure where they apply a tooth-coloured resin to the chipped area. The dentist will carefully sculpt the resin and shape it to restore the natural appearance of the tooth. Bonding is a quick and painless procedure, and is usually completed in a single visit to the dentist.
- Dental Veneers: Your dentist may recommend dental veneers for more extensive damage. Veneers are thin porcelain shells custom-made to match the shape, size and colour of your natural teeth. The damaged tooth is first prepared and then the veneer is then permanently bonded to its surface. This treatment is a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution. The veneers procedure typically requires you to make two visits to the dentist, with a temporary veneer placed in the interim.
- Dental Crowns: In cases of severe chipping or when a significant portion of the tooth is missing, a dental crown may be the ideal solution. A dental crown is a cap-like structure made of porcelain or metal that completely covers the damaged tooth. The tooth is carefully reshaped to accommodate the crown, ensuring a secure and natural fit. Placing a crown usually requires two visits, and the dentist will first put a temporary crown in place and then a permanent one on the second visit.
Materials Used for Chipped Tooth Repair
Dentists utilise various materials in chipped tooth repair, depending on the specific approach and patient requirements. These materials include:
Composite Resins: Dental bonding procedures often employ composite resins, which match the natural colour of the tooth. These resins are pliable and are shaped and then polished to achieve a seamless blend with your surrounding teeth.
Porcelain: A dental professional commonly uses high-quality porcelain to craft dental veneers and crowns. Porcelain offers exceptional durability, resistance to staining and a natural appearance, thereby making it an ideal material for visible tooth repair.
Metals: In certain cases, particularly with posterior teeth, metal alloys like gold or silver may be used to construct dental crowns. These materials provide excellent strength and longevity and they are typically reserved for less visible areas of the mouth.
Duration of Chipped Tooth Repair Procedures
The time it takes for chipped tooth repair work varies and depends on the technique the dentist chooses, as well as the complexity of the case:
- Dental Bonding: A dentist will usually complete dental bonding in a single appointment, typically lasting 30 minutes to one hour.
- Dental Veneers: The process of applying dental veneers usually spans over two appointments and each one takes around 1-2 hours.
- Dental Crowns: Dental crown procedures typically involve two visits, and each appointment lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
Summary
- Promptly seeking dental care for a chipped tooth is important for your oral health and to restore the aesthetics of your smile.
- Dentists adopt various approaches, such as bonding, veneers and crowns, depending on the nature and severity of the damage.
