If you have a chipped tooth, the first thing to do is contact your dental care professionals immediately. Depending on the severity of the chip, they may want to see you right away. In some cases, however, the crack or fracture may be minor enough to wait until the next available appointment.

Whatever the case, dental professionals have a few different ways to restore your smile to its former glory. Here are some common procedures used to repair a chipped tooth:

• Bonding: This procedure works best on small chips or cracks. To perform it, the dentist will apply a composite to the tooth and harden it using an ultraviolet light, achieving a natural-looking bonding to match your other teeth.
• Enamel Shaping: Minor chips or imperfections like craze lines can be remedied with enamel shaping, in which the dentist will remove a small surface layer to create a smooth appearance and texture. 
• Veneers: Dental veneers may be used for larger chips. They consist of thin porcelain caps which are placed over the natural tooth after it’s been ground down. This option is commonly used when the chipped tooth occurs in the front of the patient’s mouth.
• Root Canal: In cases where the crack or chip is so deep it leaves the nerve exposed, your dentist may need to perform a root canal to salvage the integrity of the tooth. The affected nerve and pulp are removed to prevent further pain and infection; then, it’s sealed for safety.
• Crown: When a tooth is significantly cracked, it may require a dental crown. These fixtures resemble natural teeth and are placed over the entire tooth to safeguard it after a root canal has been performed.

Even with the best dental hygiene, accidents like a chipped tooth are sometimes unavoidable. If you or a family member experiences a chip, fracture, or crack, the team from Tohill Dentistry in Somerset, KY, can help. Their experienced team assesses each issue on a case-by-case basis to present the best solution for each patient’s needs. To reach their office, call (606) 679-4450 or send them a message through their website. You can also like Tohill Dentistry on Facebook for up-to-date news and announcements.