Chipped Tooth

What Is a Chipped Tooth?

A chipped tooth occurs when a portion of your tooth’s enamel breaks off, leaving the tooth uneven, jagged, or fractured. It’s one of the most common dental emergencies and can happen for various reasons, including accidents, biting down on hard foods, or weakened teeth due to decay. While small chips might not cause immediate pain, larger chips can expose the dentin or pulp of the tooth, leading to sensitivity, discomfort, or even infection if left untreated.

At Los Angeles Emergency Dentist, we understand how distressing a chipped tooth can be. Our experienced team provides quick, effective treatment to restore your smile and prevent further complications.

What Causes a Chipped Tooth?

Teeth can chip for a variety of reasons, including:

Trauma or Injury

Accidents, falls, or sports injuries can easily result in a chipped tooth.

Biting Hard Foods

Chewing on hard foods like ice, nuts, or candy can crack or chip your teeth.

Weakened Teeth

Teeth weakened by decay, grinding (bruxism), or large fillings are more susceptible to chipping.

Habits

Bad habits like using your teeth to open packages or chew on pens can lead to chips.

Why Is Treating a Chipped Tooth Important?

While some chips may seem minor, they can lead to serious dental issues if not addressed promptly:

Increased Sensitivity

Exposed dentin or pulp can cause pain or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.

Infection Risk

If the chip exposes the inner layers of the tooth, bacteria can enter and cause an infection or abscess.

Weakened Tooth Structure

A chipped tooth is more prone to further fractures, leading to more extensive damage.

Aesthetic Concerns

A chipped front tooth can affect the appearance of your smile, impacting your confidence.

How Is a Chipped Tooth Treated?

The treatment for a chipped tooth depends on the severity of the damage:

Bonding or Filling

For small chips, a dental filling or bonding with tooth-colored resin can restore the tooth’s shape and function.

Dental Veneers

For visible chips on front teeth, veneers can be used to cover the damage and enhance your smile.

Dental Crowns

If the chip is large and affects the tooth’s strength, a crown may be necessary to protect the tooth and restore its appearance.

Root Canal

If the chip exposes the tooth’s pulp, a root canal may be required to remove infected tissue before restoring the tooth.

Tooth Extraction

In severe cases where the tooth is too damaged to repair, extraction may be necessary, followed by options like implants or bridges to replace the missing tooth.

At Los Angeles Emergency Dentist, we tailor our treatments to each patient’s needs, ensuring the best possible outcome for your dental health.

What to Do If You Chip a Tooth?

If you chip a tooth, follow these steps before seeking professional care:

Rinse Your Mouth

Use warm water to clean the area.

Protect the Tooth

If the chip has sharp edges, cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum to prevent cuts to your tongue or cheeks.

Save the Broken Piece

If you have the chipped fragment, bring it with you to your appointment.

Manage Pain

Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if you’re experiencing discomfort and use a cold compress to reduce swelling.

Emergency Dental Care for Chipped Teeth in Los Angeles

At Los Angeles Emergency Dentist, we specialize in treating chipped teeth quickly and effectively. Whether your chip is minor or severe, our skilled team will restore your tooth’s appearance and functionality while preventing further complications.

Why Choose Us?

Don’t Wait to Treat a Chipped Tooth!

A chipped tooth may seem minor, but it can lead to bigger problems if left untreated.
Contact
Los Angeles Emergency Dentist today to schedule your emergency appointment.

Reach our 24/7 patient center at (818)614-2056 or visit us online to book your appointment.
We’re here to help you smile confidently again!