Most people will chip their teeth at one point or another in their lives. The enamel can become weaker if it is subject to constant wear. Hard food, or even an accident can cause damage to your teeth. No matter what the reason, our Rancho Cucamonga dentists offer a variety of options to fix chipped teeth. This will allow you to show off your smile confidently.
Dental Bonding
The extent of damage to the tooth and the visibility of the chip when you smile will determine the treatment. Dental bonding is a quick and painless way to repair damage to the teeth if only a little bit of enamel is missing.
Dental bonding, also known as a “filling”, fills the tooth with tooth-like composite resin. It is quick and painless and does not require any numbing medication. The area that has been chipped is etched to ensure that the bonding material sticks securely.
The adhesive is then applied and the composite resin is shaped to match the natural tooth. The procedure is completed when the material has been hardened by ultraviolet light.
Crowns
Crowns are used to cover the root of the tooth and can be used for larger chips, severe decay or chipped teeth. Crowns can be made of ceramic, metal fused to metal or porcelain, and are durable. Our Rancho Cucamonga Dentists can help you choose the right option for your needs in terms of cost, durability, appearance, and more.
It usually takes two visits to place a crown. A root canal may be necessary to strengthen the root structure so that the crown can be supported. Any excess teeth will be removed and X-rays taken.
To ensure that the crown is properly aligned, your dentist will take impressions of both the tooth receiving the crown and the opposing tooth. While your permanent crown is being made, you will be sent home with a temporary one. The temporary crown is removed at the second visit and the permanent one is cemented in place. Your teeth will look and function as good as ever, and should align seamlessly.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain Veneers can also be used to repair chips in the front teeth. Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain that cover the front teeth and fill in the gap.
One veneer can be used for one tooth chip repair, but patients may also choose to have veneers placed on all their front teeth to complete a smile restoration. Veneers can not only fix chipped teeth but also conceal gaps, correct crooked and stained teeth, and improve the bite.
The veneer is placed on top of the existing tooth surface. The veneers can then be made by taking molds of your teeth and matching them with the color. Temporary veneers are available. The temporary veneers are removed at the second visit and the permanent ones are attached with cement that has been made permanent by ultraviolet light.