Pros and Cons of Common Treatments for a Chipped Tooth

When it comes to dealing with a chipped tooth, there are a variety of dental treatments that can be used to repair the damage done to the tooth and restore its appearance. Failing to have chipped teeth repaired often leads to more serious complications like infections and toothaches.

The treatment used for each particular case often comes down to what the patient is willing to pay and how severe the damage to the tooth is.

Common treatments for a chipped tooth

1. Composite resins

These are one of the more affordable ways to deal with a chipped tooth. During the procedure, a composite resin is applied to the tooth. This is a putty-like material that can be molded into any desired shape and hardened with an ultraviolet light.

Composite bonding is a non-invasive dental procedure that does not require the use of anesthetics. The dentist will prepare the damaged tooth for the resin by using phosphorus acid to roughen the outer surfaces of the tooth. This makes it easier for the composite to form a strong bond with the patient's tooth. Afterward, the composite is applied to the tooth, and it is molded to restore the look of the damaged tooth. It is then hardened with an ultraviolet light and polished.

Pros:

  • Cheap procedure
  • Can be very effective when treating minor chips
  • The entire procedure takes less than an hour
  • Anesthesia is not needed
  • It restores the natural appearance of the tooth

Cons:

  • Repairs do not last as long as other options
  • Cannot be used to repair major chips
  • The patient will need follow-up treatments to keep the appearance of repaired tooth intact
  • Composites are more prone to staining than real teeth

2. Crowns

Also known as caps, crowns can be used to restore any type of chipped teeth, from minor to major. These prosthetics are one of the more expensive options, but the patient does get extra benefits.

The crown fully encloses the damaged tooth and looks just like a natural tooth. Crowns are a permanent solution that can last upward of 15 years.

Pros:

  • Protects the tooth from further damage
  • Can be made from stain-resistant materials like ceramic or porcelain
  • Looks natural and restores tooth's function

Cons:

  • Requires the removal of small portions of enamel
  • One of the pricier solutions
  • Can become loose over time

3. Veneers

Veneers are the third option when it comes to restoring a smile that has been damaged by a chipped tooth. These devices are thin shells that cover the front of teeth, hiding any flaws.

Pros:

  • Fast solution
  • Made from stain-resistant ceramic or porcelain
  • Look just like real teeth

Cons:

  • Only cover the front of the tooth
  • Are one of the more expensive alternatives
  • Cannot be used to treat major chips
  • Installation requires the removal of small portions of enamel

Want to learn more about fixing chipped teeth? Schedule a consultation with one of our cosmetic dentists today!

Let's get started …

Request a dental appointment here: https://www.palmbeachdentistry.com or call Palm Beach Dentistry at (561) 225-2057 for an appointment in our Delray Beach dental office.

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