Imagine you bite down on your favorite jawbreaker, only to hear a resounding crack echo from inside your mouth. You go to check in the mirror, and there it is — a horrifying blackness staring back at you. The edge of your front tooth is missing, confirming your fears: You now have a chipped front tooth. So, what do you do? How are you supposed to fix a chipped tooth?
Well, rather than worrying, rinse your mouth with water and apply a compress to reduce swelling. Once you’ve taken the necessary precautions, reach out to a dentist and schedule an appointment as soon as you can.
Can a Dentist Fix a Chipped Tooth in Only One Day?
No one likes to see their teeth half-broken. Instead, the first thing you want to do after chipping your tooth is to get it fixed asap. Luckily, depending on the state of your chipped tooth, your dentist might be able to repair it in one sitting.
But this depends on how badly your tooth has suffered. If your tooth has lost a big chunk of it, it might require more than one visit to repair it. Moreover, the procedure will be a bit pricier as well.
On the other hand, if your tooth is only missing a small piece of enamel, fixing it will barely take any time.
How Long Does it Take to Fix a Chipped Tooth?
Fixing a chipped tooth in itself takes around 30 to 60 minutes. At times, it might take longer. However, the timing may vary depending on how the dentist has to shape, polish, and contour the tooth according to its natural shape.
In addition, it also depends on the treatment procedure. For instance, dental bonding takes less time. In comparison, invasive cosmetic treatment is quite time-consuming. On the other hand, if your chipped tooth is severely damaged and your dentist suggests a dental implant, the time period can stretch out to months on end.
Can You Fix a Chipped Tooth at Home?
Unfortunately, no. You cannot fix a chipped tooth at home, nor should you try to do it. There’s no way to heal a chipped tooth naturally. This is because adult teeth do not grow back once fully erupted.
However, this doesn’t mean you can’t take basic steps and precautions to prevent severe consequences. Here are some prevention tips you can follow after chipping a tooth:
- Rinse your whole mouth with a saltwater solution.
- Use chewing gum to protect your lips and cheeks if the chipped tooth has a jagged edge.
- Try not to bite down on the affected tooth.
- Eat pain relief medications to prevent pain.
- Apply a cold compress on top of the affected area to avoid swelling and bleeding.
How to Fix a Chipped Tooth?
The only way to heal and fix a chipped tooth is by visiting a dentist. Based on your injury and the severity of the case, your dentist will most likely suggest you any of the following treatment options:
- Dental Bonding
- Dental Contouring
- Dental Crown
- Dental Filling
- Dental Implants
- Root Canal Therapy
- Sealants
- Veneers
What’s The Takeaway?
In order to fix a chipped tooth, take immediate action to prevent severe damage. Once the bleeding has stopped, and the swelling has reduced, contact a dentist immediately. This will allow you to get your tooth fixed soon.
For more information, reach out to Royalty Dental Associates at any of the following locations.
Location: 8714 Spring Cypress Rd suite 210, Spring, TX 77379, right beside Goodwill Donation Center.
Contact: (281) 655-0500
Location: 19778 Interstate Hwy 45, Spring, TX 77373, adjacent to The River Poker Club.
Contact: (281) 288-0900
