CHIPPED TOOTH
All you need to know about what to do for a chipped tooth
A chipped tooth may be painless, however if the chip is big enough to expose the nerves, pain may be felt. Sensitivity may also be felt when consuming hot or cold food and drinks.
CAUSES OF A BROKEN/CHIPPED TOOTH
Even though the enamel that covers the teeth is the toughest tissue in the human body, it is still prone to chipping and breaking. The enamel protects the blood vessels and nerve tissues of the tooth. A tooth can break for various reasons, some of the common causes being a fall, eating hard foods, using teeth to open packaging, or grinding the teeth at night.
RISK FACTORS FOR A CHIPPED TOOTH
During contact sports such as hockey and rugby, a mouthguard should be worn to prevent chipping or even losing teeth. Additionally, you should try not bite down directly on hard items such as candy and ice, and should rather suck these items to protect the teeth. Teeth should only be used to chew food, and should not be used to open bottles or hold onto objects. A tooth that has been previously chipped will be more prone to chips in the future and extra care should therefore be taken. Cavities and tooth decay weakens the enamel and can also result in a chip. Eating and drinking sugary and acidic foods and beverages such as fruits, coffee, and alcohol as well as suffering from acid reflux can cause the enamel to break down, thus leading to a chip or break in the tooth. Lastly, individuals over the age of 50 are more at risk of a chipped tooth because enamel gets weaker with age.
IF A CHIPPED TOOTH IS LEFT UNTREATED
A broken tooth can house bacteria, and can thus lead to an infection or even an abscess. If a broken tooth is left untreated it also poses the risk of nerve damage and the possible need for a root canal, or even extraction of the tooth. Moreover, a small chip that is left untreated can become bigger over time and will require more serious treatment than if it was treated sooner. It is therefore important to see a dentist as soon as possible.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU BREAK YOUR TOOTH
Firstly, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it. If there is bleeding, apply pressure to the area. Place cold compress on the area outside the mouth such as the cheek to reduce swelling. If you are able to find the broken piece of tooth, wrap it in wet gauze and bring it with you to the dentist. You may take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen for pain and inflammation. You can apply clove oil to the area as it contains eugenol which will numb the area. If the chip left a sharp or jagged edge that is cutting your gums or tongue, place dental wax over the edge. Now, make an appointment to see the dentist.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Depending on the severity of the break, a dentist will recommend different treatment options.
Bonding:
Bonding is a treatment used for smaller or less severe chips. It involves molding a composite material over the chipped tooth. The dentist will first roughen the enamel in order for the composite material to properly attach to the tooth, then the bond will be attached and shaped to look like a natural tooth. Finally, a blue light is used to set and harden the bond. Bonds can last for roughly ten years.
Veneers:
These are required for more severe chips. This treatment involves porcelain covers being placed over a front tooth. The result is a natural looking tooth that may be identical or even better looking than the natural teeth. Veneers are a good option if a previously bonded tooth has been broken. Multiple veneers are able to be placed at once and so this is also a suitable option if an individual wants to cosmetically improve the appearance of all their front teeth, including the non-chipped ones. Veneers can last up to 20 years.
Crowns:
These are similar to veneers as they also involve porcelain covers placed over the tooth, however crowns cover the entire tooth whereas veneers only cover the front or visible part of the tooth. Dental crowns are used when there is great and severe loss of the original tooth. Two dentist appointments are usually required, the first is where the mold for the crown is taken and the second is where the crown will be cemented in place.
Fillings:
These are especially used if a molar or back tooth is chipped. In the past, metal was used for fillings however now more natural and smooth looking materials such as porcelain are used. Nowadays you are not even able to spot where a filling has been placed. The second molar on the lower jaw is the most common molar to be chipped because the most pressure is applied to this tooth when eating.
Root canal:
This treatment is recommended if the crack extends into the pulp of the tooth. A root canal is required if the tooth has been badly infected, and this is a way of saving the tooth without needing to extract it. The damaged pulp of the tooth will be removed, and the canal will be cleaned and disinfected. The tooth will then be sealed, and a temporary filling or crown will be placed on the tooth.
The takeaway
If you happen to chip a tooth, do not worry as it is generally a mild injury that requires fairly simple and painless treatment. However, it is important to see a dentist and keep the area clean to prevent infection. It is also beneficial to rather try to avoid chipping your teeth in the first place, by practicing good oral hygiene such as brushing teeth twice a day, flossing and using mouthwash as well as regular check-ups at the dentist. Remember that your teeth should not be used as a tool to hold or open items.
