Conditions - Broken or Chipped Tooth

Broken / Chipped Tooth

If you have a broken or chipped tooth as a result of a very recent trauma or accident, contact your dentist immediately!

Click here for more information on Accidents.

chipped teeth If you have a broken or chipped tooth that is not the result of a recent trauma, Dr. Sweet can evaluate the tooth for possible treatment. It is still important to have the tooth evaluated right away, because in some situations a minor procedure now can save you from a more significant procedure in the near future!

A very small chip may be corrected by enamel shaping. If the chip is a little larger, the best options may be bonding or a veneer. If the chip is on a molar, an onlay may be appropriate. Large chips and fractured teeth generally require a crown. If the fracture involves the nerve, Root Canal Therapy may be necessary before the tooth is crowned. It is important to have a broken tooth crowned before it becomes infected or abscessed!

In extreme cases, a broken tooth cannot be saved. In this case, an extraction is needed. The missing tooth can be replaced with a bridge or an implant.

Each case is unique. Only your dentist can properly diagnose the best course of treatment for your tooth.

© Copyright 2003- Dental WebSmith, Inc. and Robert L. Sweet, D.D.S., P.A. All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The information provided within is intended to help you better understand dental conditions and procedures. It is not meant to serve as delivery of medical or dental care. If you have specific questions or concerns, contact your health care provider.