How to Fix a Chipped Tooth

Teeth can become chipped or broken for a variety of reasons—biting down on something hard, nighttime teeth grinding, weakened or decayed tooth structure, or injuries are just a few common examples. A visible chipped tooth can have a dramatic effect on the overall appearance of your smile and may even make your tooth susceptible to further damage. If you have a chipped tooth, it is important to visit an experienced dentist for treatment to protect the health of your tooth and improve your smile. Fortunately, Los Angeles cosmetic dentist Kevin Sands, DDS offers several different techniques for repairing chipped teeth and restoring a full, healthy, beautiful smile. Based on the severity of the tooth damage, where the tooth is located in the mouth, and your desired aesthetic result, Dr. Sands may recommend the following options:

• Porcelain Veneers: A porcelain veneer is a thin shell of custom-designed ceramic material that fits over the visible front side of a tooth to change its appearance. Veneers can be used to conceal a chipped tooth, creating the appearance of a full tooth body that is color-matched and optimally shaped to blend with the surrounding teeth.

• Porcelain Crowns: When a chipped or broken tooth is too badly damaged or decayed to support a porcelain veneer, Dr. Sands may recommend placing a custom porcelain crown on the tooth. A porcelain crown not only restores the full shape of the tooth, it also rebuilds a strong, protective structure atop the remaining healthy portion of the tooth. Like porcelain veneers, porcelain crowns are shade-matched and precision-designed for optimal aesthetics. Crowns are also crafted with restoring a balanced bite and full dental function in mind.

• Cosmetic Bonding: Chipped teeth can be quickly repaired with a method called cosmetic dental bonding. This type of treatment applies layers of tooth-colored composite resin onto the tooth to fill out the chipped area and restore a full shape. The resin is hardened, contoured, and buffed until an optimal appearance is achieved. While cosmetic bonding is effective and affordable, it is not typically as long-lasting or natural-looking as porcelain restorations.

If you are interested in repairing your chipped tooth with the help of an experienced cosmetic dentist who prioritizes high-quality treatment, we welcome you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sands.