Will a Chipped Tooth Heal on Its Own?

All too many patients avoid chipped tooth treatment in hopes that it will heal on its own. This can lead to severe symptoms and other oral health concerns that require more extensive treatment. While the discomforting symptoms may go away with a minor chip, chipped teeth do not heal on their own and require care from a dental professional.

What to expect after a chipped tooth occurs

If a chipped tooth occurs, then you should quickly assess the severity, rinse your mouth to prevent infection, and see the dentist as soon as possible if the chip is severe. If the chip is minor, then you can manage the pain with over-the-counter pain relief medication and avoiding sugar until your visit.

Chipped tooth causes and symptoms

A chipped tooth can result from a number of different reasons, and the severity of the symptoms depends on the cause. The most notable causes of a chipped tooth include:

• Physical exercise
• Contact sports
• Auto accident
• A trip or fall
• Teeth grinding

The symptoms of a chipped tooth typically include minor to moderate discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity, along with a notable change in the tooth’s appearance and functionality. If any of the symptoms are severe (i.e. intolerable pain), then prompt care is very important.

When a chipped tooth requires treatment

All instances of a chipped tooth require treatment. However, the urgency in which treatment is needed varies based on the severity and cause of the chip. For a minor chip, the patient can take care of the tooth at home while they wait for a convenient time to see the dentist, whereas severe chips likely require emergency dental (or medical) care.

Treatment options for a chipped tooth

The treatment options for a chipped tooth are dependent upon the severity of the chip. When treatment is administered soon after it occurs, dental bonding, a veneer, or a dental crown may be all that is required. For more severe chips, root canal therapy followed by a dental crown may be necessary. In some instances of severe chips that cannot be properly treated (i.e. the tooth is also very loose), the best option may be to extract the tooth and replace it.

How to recover after chipped tooth treatment

After chipped tooth treatment the dentist provides instructions to help ensure a smooth recovery. This may include oral hygiene tips, dietary restrictions, wearing a nightguard or mouthguard to prevent further damage, and follow-up visits. It is important to follow the recovery process provided by the dental staff closely to avoid any post-care complications such as an oral infection, which is at a higher risk after certain dental procedures that are used to treat chipped teeth.

Get in touch with our dental team for chipped tooth treatment

Our dental team understands the importance of prompt chipped tooth treatment, and we can help ensure you are able to restore the health and appearance of your smile after a chip occurs. Reach out to our dental team today to schedule a visit for chipped tooth treatment.Request an appointment here: https://www.mariettaroswelldentist.com or call Marietta Roswell Dental Care at (770) 993-2657 for an appointment in our Roswell office.Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: What Should I Do If I Chip My Tooth in Roswell, GA.