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A chipped tooth requires an emergency trip to the dentist as soon as possible. However, there are steps you can take while waiting for your appointment to minimize discomfort and ensure the best chance of a successful repair.

What to Do Before Your Appointment

A chipped tooth often has sharp, jagged edges. Depending on the tooth’s location, pointy edges can irritate and scratch your mouth while you eat or talk, so cover them until your appointment. Dental wax can be applied to the tooth, which will protect your mouth until you go to the dentist. If you don’t have dental wax on hand, use sugar-free gum in its place. Avoid chewing on the side with the damaged tooth. Take over-the-counter pain relief if you experience discomfort, and inform your dentist if the pain is severe.

How Dentists Treat Chipped Teeth

dentistMost chipped teeth are extremely treatable, and small chips can be addressed by dental bonding. This process involves applying a resin to the chip that matches the color of your natural teeth. Resin is affixed to the tooth with a dental adhesive and hardened using an ultraviolet light.

Larger chips usually require more extensive procedures. A crown is placed on top of the injured area to improve its look and function and protect it from bacteria. A root canal might be necessary if a significant portion of the tooth has been sheared away. This procedure involves removing damaged tissue and filling the tooth with a sturdy dental material to keep it intact. A crown will be placed on top after the procedure.

 

If you have a chipped tooth, contact the skilled team of dentists at Zen Dental Hawaii in Honolulu. These professionals provide a wide range of restorative and oral surgery solutions to repair chipped or missing teeth, including root canals, crowns, bridges, and dental implants. Call (808) 532-5888 to schedule an appointment, or learn more about their services online

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