A chipped tooth might not seem that bad compared to other dental injuries. After all, most of the pearly white is still intact. In fact, you may think the affected area will get better on its own. However, this view underestimates your problem. Chipped teeth can’t actually heal themselves; only a dentist can fix their damage. As for the reasons behind these facts, your Garland dental practice is here to explain. Read on to learn why a chipped tooth won’t heal and why to see a dentist instead.
Why Doesn’t a Chipped Tooth Heal?
Body parts can only heal themselves when they have blood cells. Unfortunately, though, tooth enamel doesn’t have any. Instead of blood, the layer is mainly made of hardened calcium. As such, enamel can’t regenerate bits that chip off due to injury.
That said, your tooth can recover itself somewhat. For example, it can rebuild its remaining enamel through remineralization. That way, said tooth will still have slight protection against cavities and infections.
Why Bother with a Dentist?
When you suffer a chipped tooth, you really should see a dentist. Otherwise, you’ll face side effects and the benefits of treatment.
A Chipped Tooth Causes Problems
If you forego a dental visit, your tooth chip will cause health issues.
At first, these might only seem minor or moderate — things like discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity. Such symptoms may even go away if the chip is a minor one.
With time, though, the problems will get worse. Left untreated, the chipped tooth will receive more extensive damage. Plus, it’ll be vulnerable to bacteria that could infect its pulp.
Treatment Could Restore Your Smile
Fortunately, most dentists have the tools and resources to fix chipped teeth.
If you visit one soon enough, options like dental bonding, a veneer, or a dental crown may be all that’s needed. These procedures hide the chip and protect your tooth from further harm.
If your injury is more severe, though, root canal therapy followed by a dental crown may be necessary. Still, this option would only happen if you let the affected tooth get infected.
At the end of the day, you should count on your dentist to fix the chip in your tooth. That said, go ahead and book an appointment soon.
About the Practice
North Garland Family Dental is based in Garland, TX. As led by Drs. Megan Snyder and Yaritza Vazquez, our practice performs a wide range of dental services. In particular, we offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, as well as emergency treatments. Our office is also a proud dental sedation provider for patients suffering from anxiety. For more information or to book an appointment, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (972)-530-7979.
