A chipped tooth may seem like a normal dental condition, but it worries many people. That rough feeling on the tongue doesn’t suit everyone. However, a very shallow chip on the top of the teeth goes unnoticed and bothers the patient at all.
This minor-looking dental condition can be caused by several reasons. While trauma and accidents are the common causes, poor dental hygiene or eating harsh food can also lead to it.
In medical terms, having a chipped tooth means a fragment of your tooth’s outer protective layer (Enamel) has broken off. So, does this broken enamel get better with time, or will a small chipped tooth smooth out on its own? Let’s figure out.
Will A Small Chipped Tooth Smooth Out on Its Own?
Will a small chipped tooth smooth out? It is a common concern of patients who experience very shallow chips in their teeth.
Well, as we know, chipping of teeth means the breaking of enamel. It is the strongest part of the human body that doesn’t heal on its own. Once the enamel is damaged, it has gone forever. That’s why healing of a chipped tooth on its own is not possible.
However, a shallow chip on the teeth may smooth out through saliva. Yes, you read it right: if the chip is small and on the surface, then it will smooth out in a few months and may also become unnoticeable.
However, one should not avoid severe chips that result in pain and discomfort as they can get worse with time.
Will a Chipped Tooth Get Worse?
By now, you must have understood that tiny minor chips are not a problem at all, as they don’t usually cause problems. But major chips can result in multiple complications such as:
1. Further Damage
Chipped teeth can have sharp edges that could cut the soft tissue of the tongue and cheeks, leading to discomfort. Additionally, a chipped tooth is also more prone to additional damage.
2. Decay
Once the other protective layer is damaged, the teeth become prone to all sorts of issues, of which cavity is the most common one. Damaged enamel allows the bacteria to enter the inner layer of the tooth, which is more susceptible to decay.
3. Sensitivity
As we know, damaged enamel exposes the inner layer of the teeth to the environment. This may expose the nerve and blood vessels in the pulp, too, and that can lead to teeth sensitivity. It will cause discomfort and pain when consuming hot or cold foods and drinks.
4. Tooth loss
One can also lose their tooth because the chipped tooth is weak and prone to injuries. It can break during physical sports or even while biting or chewing hard food.
Additionally, gum swelling, bleeding, and cosmetic concerns are also some of the complications of a severely chipped tooth. So, don’t waste your time thinking, “Will a small chipped tooth smooth out on its own?” and let’s figure out how to fix a chipped tooth.
6 Treatment Options for Chipped Tooth
There are multiple treatment options for a chipped tooth and the size of the chip decides which treatment option is going to be best for it:
1. Polishing
We know that minor or very small chips eventually get smooth by salvia. But it takes a few months, which may affect your confidence. Polishing can do this in one dental setting. The dentist will quickly smooth out the chip so that it can blend with your surrounding teeth. But many people have a doubt in their mind that does polishing teeth damage enamel.
This is one of the most asked question that individuals ask regarding the treatment. The good news is that when performed correctly, polishing is a safe and non-invasive procedure that does not harm the enamel. However, selecting the best dental surgeon in patna who uses precise tools and techniques guarantees a procedure that is both effective and gentle.
2. Crowns
The dentist may suggest going for a crown when the chip is resulting in decay. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that protect the exposed tooth and strengthen the weak ones. Additionally, dental crown treatment in Patna may also improve the appearance of teeth and result in beautiful smiles. Crowns come in multiple types of materials, and the location of the chip dictates which one to use.
3. Veneers
It is another option for dealing with cosmetic concerns if you have a chipped tooth. Veneers are coverings that are generally helpful for front teeth. They cover the whole front tooth, which hides any chips or cracks while giving the tooth a smooth and natural look. Dental Veneers are much like crowns that demand a few visits to the dentist. Talk to your dentist to determine if veneers will work for you and begin your journey toward a strong and beautiful smile!
4. Fillings
Dental fillings are materials that help to fill in the missing parts of the tooth. Experts suggest this treatment method when the chip is rather small or is in the back of your teeth. The advantage of getting fillings is that it’s a quick treatment and pain-free way to repair a chipped tooth, while restoring the tooth’s function and appearance. Dental fillings stand as an excellent solution for those in need of repairing a chipped tooth.
5. Bonding
In this treatment, materials are also their to fill in the chip, but it’s not like a traditional dental filling. Bondings use a composite material that is mostly beneficial for dealing with cosmetic concerns. This tooth-colored material seamlessly blends with your natural teeth, improving the appearance of the chipped tooth, and that’s why experts use it in the front tooth.
6. Root Canal
If the chip is severe and is exposing the pulp of the tooth, you may need root canal treatment in Patna. The pulp is where the nerve and blood vessels are located, and exposing them may cause severe infection. A root canal treatment will remove all the dead or affected pulp, which will reduce the pain and discomfort. Afterward, the dentist may place a crown to protect the tooth further.
So, these were all the treatment methods for chipped teeth. But how long does it take to fix a chipped tooth? Well, the size and the location of the tooth detected the time taken for its treatment. Usually, it takes around 45 to 60 minutes for minor chips, and severe ones may need multiple days.
Is a Small Chipped Tooth an Emergency?
Small chipped teeth may not be an alarming experience to many people; hence, usually, it is not considered a dental emergency. But one should rush to a dental clinic if they experience:
- Extreme Tooth Pain
- Loose or Wobbly Teeth
- Uncontrolled Bleeding
- Severe Mouth or Face Swelling
- Jaw Pain or Locked Jaw
Don’t ignore these symptoms, as they may lead to severe health hazards if not treated on time. Get in touch with a well-qualified and experienced dentist who can handle severe cases with ease.
Top Dentist in Patna – Dr. Aishwarya Roy
Dr. Aishwarya Roy is one of the best dentist in Patna for dealing with severe and complicated cases. She is known in the town for her unmatched expertise and rich experience in the field of dentistry.
This committed dental expert has helped many people achieve the smile of their dreams through a wide range of services. Regional folks love to visit Dr. Aishwarya’s Multispecilaity Dental Clinic because of its affordability. The clinic has the latest dental tools and technologies that ensure safe and secure treatments.
Dr. Aishwarya’s Multispecilaity Dental Clinic is located in the heart of Patna – Boring Road hence, it is also easily accessible. Locals consider it the best dental clinic in Boring Road, Patna, for its world-class environment and flexible appointment scheduling.
Conclusion
Having a small chipped tooth may not be an alarming experience for everyone, but it should not be avoided.
Those who have chipped teeth in the front of their teeth generally ask, “will a small chipped tooth smooth out on its own?”. Well, going through the blog, we learned that, yes, it can smooth out through saliva, but only if the chips are shallow and small. Severe chips will require professional attention as they may lead to serious health hazards.
If you’re in Patna and looking for expert care, visit Dr. Aishwarya’s Multispeciality Dental Clinic. We are known for providing safe, effective, and affordable treatments, ensuring you get the best care without breaking the bank. At our clinic, you won’t have to worry about high chipped tooth repair costs.
Book your appointment today and let us help you restore your smile!
