Can Your Chipped or Cracked Tooth Be Repaired?

February 9, 2021

Chipping or cracking a tooth is never fun. Some people will experience pain when they injure a tooth, while others may not realize there’s a problem until the chip or crack causes other issues, such as a tooth infection. If you’ve chipped or cracked a tooth, it’s important to visit your dentist to see if the problem can be repaired to prevent future issues with your smile. The good news is that, in many cases, chipped and cracked teeth can be repaired—here’s how!

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns may be a restoration option for you if you have a cracked tooth. Not all cracked teeth will need a dental crown, but for those with more severe cracks, a dental crown may be able to save the tooth. A dental crown is a porcelain ceramic replica of your natural tooth that’s placed over the tooth. This is a permanent restoration that will look indistinguishable from your natural teeth. Dental crowns can help prevent your tooth from completely fracturing, which can alleviate the need for a root canal or even a tooth extraction [1].

Dental Bonding

If you’ve chipped a tooth, dental bonding may be an option to help repair both the function and appearance of the tooth [2]. Dental bonding uses the same material as composite (tooth- colored) fillings to build the tooth back up to its original form. Dental bonding can not only help protect the tooth from future damage due to the chip, but it can give your smile a more cohesive appearance after chipping a tooth. Other teeth that have been chipped, such as a molar, may also be treated with dental bonding in a filling-type procedure.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers may be an option for those who have both chipped and cracked teeth [3]. Dental veneers are typically made of porcelain ceramic. They’re restorations that fit over your natural teeth. Veneers can not only enhance the appearance of your smile, but help protect your teeth from future issues from the chips and cracks.

Not everyone will be a candidate for dental veneers, and as this is a permanent procedure, your dentist will review all your options with you before deciding on this form of treatment. However, dental veneers can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile!

Have You Chipped or Cracked a Tooth?

If you’ve chipped or cracked a tooth, it’s time to visit your dentist today to determine how you might be able to fix it. Chips and cracks that are ignored can eventually lead to more serious issues, so it’s always a good idea to check with your dentist to see what can be done for your smile!