Chipping or breaking a tooth can be a painful experience. It can happen due to various reasons, such as biting down on hard objects, playing sports, or a sudden injury. If you have a broken or chipped tooth or fractured tooth, it’s important to get it treated by a dental professional as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your tooth and surrounding bone. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about chipped teeth repair, costs, and treatment options.
The Severity of Chipped or Fractured Tooth
A chipped tooth can range from a minor cosmetic issue to a severe dental emergency. It all depends on the severity of the chip or break. If the tooth’s pulp, which contains the blood vessels and nerves, is exposed, it can be extremely painful and require immediate attention. If the crack extends to the gum line, it can lead to tooth loss, and the treatment options become more complicated.
The severity of the chip or break also affects the repair options and costs. For example, a small chip on temporary crown of a front tooth may only require dental bonding, which is a relatively quick and inexpensive procedure. On the other hand, a large chip or a broken tooth may require a dental crown or dental implant, which is more time-consuming and costly.
Treatment Options for Chipped or Cracked Tooth
The first step in treating a chipped or broken tooth is to visit a dental professional. At URBN Dental, we have multiple locations throughout Houston, including Uptown, Midtown, Montrose, City Center, Katy, East River, and Houston Heights. Our experienced dentists can evaluate the severity of the tooth chip, or break and recommend the best treatment option for your specific case.
Here are some common treatment options for chipped or broken teeth:
Dental Bonding
This is a simple and affordable procedure for repairing small to medium-sized chips on front teeth. A tooth-colored composite resin is applied to the affected tooth to restore entire tooth to its original shape and color. The procedure takes only one visit to the dentist’s office, and the results can last for several years with proper oral hygiene.
Dental Crowns
If the tooth has a large chip or a significant portion is missing, a dental crown may be required. A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the remaining tooth, providing protection and restoring the tooth’s function and appearance. Dental crowns can be made from various materials, such as porcelain, metal, or a combination of both.
Dental Implants
If the tooth is severely damaged or missing, a dental implant may be the best solution. An implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant integrates with the surrounding bone, a dental crown is placed on top, providing a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth. Dental implants are a more costly option but offer a long-lasting and durable solution for tooth loss.
Dental Veneers
A dental veneer is a thin shell made of porcelain or composite resin that is bonded to the front surface of the natural tooth below. Veneers are an excellent option for repairing chips, cracks, or discoloration on front teeth. They are custom-made to match the natural color and shape of your teeth, providing a seamless and beautiful smile.
Root Canal Therapy
If the chip or break extends to the tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be necessary. Root canal therapy involves removing the damaged or infected tooth breaks the pulp and filling the space with a special material. The tooth is then capped with a dental crown to protect it from further damage.
Self-Care Measures for Chipped or Broken Tooth
If you have to fix a chipped tooth or broken tooth and can’t see a dentist immediately, there are some self-care measures you can take to prevent further damage and ease discomfort:
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce swelling and prevent infection.
- Apply dental wax or paraffin to cover the jagged or sharp edge of the tooth, preventing it from cutting your tongue or cheek.
- Eat soft foods and avoid hard candy or chewing on ice to prevent further damage.
- Avoid playing sports or other activities that may cause more damage to the affected tooth.
- Use sugar-free gum to help clean the area and stimulate saliva production, which can help protect the tooth’s enamel.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain and discomfort.
Cost of Chipped Teeth Repair
The cost of chipped dental repair varies depending on the severity of the chip or break, the treatment option chosen by cosmetic dentist, and the location of the dental office. At URBN Dental, we offer affordable and competitive pricing for our dental services, and we work with most dental insurance providers to maximize your benefits.
Dental Insurance Coverage for Chipped Dental Repair
Most dental insurance plans cover chipped dental repair, but the coverage and out-of-pocket costs vary depending on the plan. At URBN Dental, we accept most dental insurance plans, and our knowledgeable staff can help you understand your coverage and benefits.
If you don’t have dental insurance, we offer flexible payment options and financing plans to make chipped tooth repair more affordable and accessible. Our goal is to provide high-quality dental care to our patients without financial barriers.
Preventing Chipped Tooth
While accidents happen, there are steps you can take to keep natural teeth and prevent chipped or broken teeth. Here are some tips:
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports or engaging in other activities that may cause dental injuries.
- Avoid biting down on hard objects like pens, pencils, or ice.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks that can weaken tooth enamel.
- If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a nightguard to protect your teeth from wear and tear.
Do You Have a Damaged Tooth? Visit URBN Dental!
Chipping or breaking a tooth can be a painful and stressful experience, but with the right treatment and care, you can restore your smile and oral health. At URBN Dental, we offer a range of chipped tooth and cracked teeth repair options, from dental bonding to dental implants, to meet your specific needs and budget.
If you have a chipped or broken tooth, don’t hesitate to contact us at any of our Houston locations, including Uptown, Midtown, Montrose, City Center, Katy, East River, and Houston Heights. Our experienced dentists are dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate care to our patients, helping them achieve healthy and beautiful smiles.
