What Should You Do if You’ve Chipped a Tooth?

A chipped tooth can be an unexpected and uncomfortable experience. Staying calm and knowing what steps you should take can minimize the extent of damage and ensure the best possible outcomes. Dr. Nallasamy and her dedicated team at Heather Ridge Laser Dentistry offer a range of restorative dentistry to get you back in a healthy, functional smile. You can count on us for exceptional care and service!

You’ve Chipped a Tooth – So What Now? 

Whether you’ve chipped a tooth biting down on some ice, had a sports-related injury, or had an accidental fall, it is important to stay calm and determine the extent of damage. If you or a loved one has a severe head injury, uncontrollable bleeding from the mouth, or any other life-threatening emergency, don’t wait. Please call 911 for assistance or go to the nearest emergency room. 

In most cases, chipped teeth are not an immediate threat to your health. Pick up any fragments of the affected tooth, rinse your mouth with salt water, and place cold compresses to relieve discomfort or swelling. Make sure to give our office a call. One of our dedicated team members will evaluate your situation and provide guidance and immediate care instructions. We will also schedule an emergency appointment to ensure prompt and effective care. 

What Are Dental Restoration Options for Tooth Chips?

At Heather Ridge Laser Dentistry, we offer a range of tooth restoration options to repair chipped or otherwise damaged teeth. The ideal treatment will depend on the extent of damage and your unique needs. 

• Porcelain Veneers: Dental veneers are wafer-thin porcelain shells we place on the front of your teeth to repair tooth chips and mask tooth imperfections. The aesthetic restorations are made to match your smile, delivering beautifully natural results. 
• Dental Crowns: A dental crown is a tooth-shaped restoration that covers a damaged tooth, restoring its health, function, and appearance. Your new restoration will look and function like your natural teeth, and with proper care, it can last for many years to come. 
• Root Canal Therapy: At times, an extensive chip may require more involved treatment, like root canal therapy, to preserve the tooth and relieve your discomfort. A root canal-treated tooth can become prone to breakage, which is why we typically recommend placing a dental crown for protection. 
• Tooth Extraction and Replacement: In rare instances, a tooth chip can cause irreparable damage, leaving us with no viable option but to extract the affected tooth. Dr. Nallasamy may recommend a tooth replacement option, such as a dental implant or partial denture, to keep the remaining teeth from shifting out of position and to enhance your smile’s health and function. 

Restorative Dentistry Solutions Near Me in Gurnee, IL

A chipped tooth can seem like a setback, but a little help from restorative dentistry and your trusted team at Heather Ridge Laser Dentistry can help you restore your smile’s health, function, and natural appearance. We look forward to providing you with the exceptional dental care you deserve. We invite you to call our office at 847-356-2336 to schedule your appointment or request one online today.