Tooth enamel is intended to be very hard. Yet it isn’t always impervious to forces applied by an accidental blow to the mouth, grinding teeth or a bad habit like chewing on pens and pencils. In some of these instances the impact to a tooth can cause a minor chip in the enamel layer.
If the tooth doesn’t cause any immediate pain or sensitivity, the damage it likely limited to the tooth enamel. However, you shouldn’t let the lack of discomfort lull you into forgoing professional treatment. If the area isn’t sealed the aberrant textures in the tooth enamel could trap bacterial deposits which could foster tooth decay.
The wisest course of action is to have the affected tooth examined by dentists like Drs. Richard and Ryan Choi. After a basic assessment they will help you understand your treatment options.
If the problem area is minimal they might be able to treat the tooth with a cosmetic bonding treatment. It calls for them to apply a small amount of composite resin to the area. This material can be shaded to match the surrounding tooth enamel.
Once it has been shaded, applied and shaped they will use a special ultraviolet light to harden the composite resin and complete the treatment process.
If you live in the San Francisco, California, region and you have a chipped tooth you should call 415-986-1491 to have it examined and treated at Richard Choi, DMD & Ryan Choi, DMD.
