We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Cosmetic

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How are Chipped Teeth Repaired?

By Adam Hill
Updated: May 21, 2024
Views: 17,350
Share

There are many factors that can cause a tooth to chip. Cavities and weak enamel undermine the overall strength of a tooth, and a root canal may lead to brittleness. Often, chipped teeth are simply the result of an accident where a chip was broken off by force. Whatever the cause, it is essential to visit a dentist promptly, even if there is no pain. Chipped teeth can be repaired by applying crowns, veneers, or new fillings in some cases. If a tooth is severely fractured, it may need to be replaced with a dental implant, although extraction is comparatively rare.

To avoid further problems in the future, chipped teeth should be repaired right away. One common form of tooth repair is called tooth reshaping. This is somewhat of an instant fix and is generally best-suited to small chips. In any case, a dentist will take an x-ray to see if there are any additional causes for concern and to make sure that the tooth is strong enough to handle the procedure.

In this process, very small amounts of enamel are removed with a drill or specialized laser, after which abrasive strips are used to shape the sides of the tooth. After this, a veneer or other coating will be applied and shaped to the natural form of the tooth. This is usually an inexpensive process, and is good for repairing small chips and other minor problems. A similar procedure known as bonding can also fix chips and other imperfections.

In the case of very minor damage, enamel shaping may be the best option. If the chip is small enough that 99% of the tooth is still intact, then white dental composite, also used for fillings, can be used to patch up surface damage. This procedure is simple enough that it can often be done without anesthetic.

For very badly chipped teeth, the best solution may be a veneer made of porcelain. Porcelain veneers are permanent hard coverings that a dentist places over one or more teeth which have the effect of repairing chipped teeth and whitening them all at once. In applying porcelain veneers, the dentist will remove a small amount of the tooth’s enamel all around, usually to a depth of about 0.02 inches (0.5 mm).

A cast is taken of the teeth at this point, from which the veneers are made, over the course of a few days or weeks. Temporary veneers are worn in the interim. Once the permanent veneers are ready, they are bonded into place with a special cement which hardens immediately when exposed to a certain wavelength of blue light.

Share
BeautyAnswered is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By dbuckley212 — On Mar 05, 2011

There is a tribe in East Africa in which the males chip their two front teeth to look like incisors. This process is painful, but is considered a sign of manhood and strength.

By BostonIrish — On Mar 02, 2011

@ShadowGenius

I think that this depends largely on the size of the chip. If the chip extends to the base or the middle of a tooth, then it should be repaired speedily, because it may impair chewing and appearance.

By ShadowGenius — On Mar 01, 2011

Some chipped teeth are repaired over time, if you let them alone. The edges tend to smooth themselves out, developing a coating of enamel to create a smooth surface. Over time, many chips will hardly be noticeable.

Share
https://www.beautyanswered.com/how-are-chipped-teeth-repaired.htm
Copy this link
BeautyAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

BeautyAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.