A chipped tooth is the bane of children and adults alike. This situation can happen when you least expect it and requires an immediate visit to the dentist. Wondering what to do if a tooth has been chipped? How can it be repaired? And can such accidents be prevented? Read our article.

Chipped tooth - first steps

As we mentioned earlier, a visit to the dentist will be necessary. The specialist will assess whether treatment will be necessary. To do this, he or she will most likely order an X-ray.

If the crush is minor and not accompanied by pain, it is possible to simply smooth the tooth. A special file is used for this purpose. The procedure is simple and safe. Finally, the dentist will perform fluoridation, which increases the resistance of the enamel to bacteria.

In the case of minor crusting, cosmetic correction is also involved. Here, much will depend on the patient. Remember, even if the crumbling is not visible at first glance, it is still there. It can lead to other oral complaints.

In the case of major chipping and fracture of the tooth it will be necessary to implement a different treatment. We also remind you that a chipped tooth is not the same as a cracked tooth. You can read about these in turn here: "Cracked tooth - symptoms and treatment".

How to repair a chipped tooth?

If smoothing the tooth is not an option, other steps must be taken. Implants are often used in such cases. It is a permanent, effective method - and the result is more than satisfactory! You can read more about this in our articles: "Implants UK - everything you need to know" i "Dental implants in the UK - types and price".

Veneers are also a popular method. They are so comfortable that once fitted they guarantee that the damage will not return. The condition, however, is that the teeth must be healthy. You can read more about veneers in our article: "Dental veneers in the UK. Everything you need to know".

Another method? Crowns for the teeth. These are also durable and effective. The patient will not have to worry about a 'diseased' tooth - this one will be properly protected! We have written more about crowns here: "Crowns for teeth in the UK - everything you need to know".

Whatever option you choose, Each of these is a specific expense. That's why, at our practice, treatments costing more than £350 can be spread over convenient instalments. You can read more about this in our article: "Teeth on credit: dental treatment on hire purchase".

Remember - our installment system is 100% secure and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number 619628).

Why is this so important?

A chipped tooth is not just an aesthetic problem. If the damage is greater, tissues may be exposed that will be directly exposed to bacteria. Thus, inflammation can occur very quickly. 

Leaving a chipped tooth can can also cause further damage. In addition, sharp edges can injure the tongue and the inner part of the cheeks.  

What can be done to prevent teeth from crumbling?

A chipped tooth is very often the result of mechanical trauma. In children it will be riding a bicycle, in adults even overbiting something hard (e.g. a seed). It is worth noting that dead teeth are most susceptible to such damage. That is, teeth that have undergone root canal treatment.

Adults are more likely to have a chipped toothbecause the tooth structure is weakened. Moreover, untreated tooth decay (which is often not visible to the naked eye!) can also play its part.

The best way to prevent a chipped, cracked or even broken tooth is simply to visit the dentist regularly. The dentist will detect any abnormalities in time and order the appropriate treatment.

Good oral hygiene on a daily basis is essential. It is also a good idea to have a dental hygiene treatment from time to time. You can read more about this in our article: "Dental hygiene in the UK - scaling, tooth sandblasting, polishing and fluoridation".

If you are looking for a dentist in the UK, we encourage you to visit our practice. Our specialists will help you take care of your smile. Get in touch with us today!