Chipped vs. Cracked Tooth Repair Options

A man experiencing pain from a chipped tooth.Chipped tooth repair starts with understanding your situation. Essentially, a chipped tooth usually involves a small portion of the tooth breaking off, often without pain. It is important to note that a chipped tooth is different from a cracked tooth. 

A cracked tooth can have a fracture that ranges from the tooth’s surface to below the gum line, sometimes causing more discomfort or sensitivity to temperatures. Symptoms like pain while chewing or sensitivity might signal the need for repair. 

Both situations vary in impact and treatment options. It’s crucial to get a professional diagnosis to determine the extent of the damage, setting the stage for the best repair solution tailored to your needs.

Repair Options for a Chipped Tooth

When it comes to chipped tooth repair, you have several effective options. The right choice depends on the chip’s severity and your specific needs. 

Your dentist will guide you through the process, ensuring the selected treatment not only restores your tooth’s function but also its appearance. Common solutions include:

  • Dental Bonding: A quick and cost-effective method where a resin matching your tooth color is applied, shaped, and hardened to cover the damage.
  • Veneers: Thin porcelain shells are designed to cover the front surface of the tooth, which is ideal for larger chips.
  • Crowns: Used for more significant damage, a crown covers the entire tooth, providing both protection and aesthetic improvement.

Solutions for a Cracked Tooth 

Cracked tooth repair can be more complex due to the variation in the crack’s location and depth. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several effective solutions to save your tooth but emphasizes the importance of early intervention.

Addressing a crack promptly can prevent further damage or infection, preserving not only the tooth’s health but also its appearance. Here are some of the solutions your dentist might recommend:

  • Dental Bonding: For minor cracks, a resin is applied to the tooth, which hardens and seamlessly blends with your natural tooth.
  • Root Canal Therapy: If the crack has reached the tooth’s pulp, this treatment removes the damaged nerve, protecting the tooth from further issues.
  • Crowns: A durable cap that covers the entire tooth, offering protection and strength, especially for more severe cracks.

Book Your Chipped or Cracked Tooth Repair Consultation in Boulder

Ready to restore your smile? Dr. Ania Mohelicki in Boulder, CO, is here to offer expert solutions for chipped and cracked tooth repair.

Don’t wait for small issues to become big problems. Call us at (303) 443-0998 to schedule a consultation today. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile.

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