When it comes to the human body, most injuries can heal independently. Minor cuts and scrapes will give way to new, clear skin. Brown bruises, meanwhile, will disappear like they were never there. Even broken bones can mend if they’re set properly! That being the case, you may wonder if the same could apply to your chipped tooth in Raleigh. Could new tooth material grow to replace the lost bit? Not quite. Read on to learn why a chip can’t self-heal and how your local dentist can treat the issue.
Will a Chipped Tooth Heal On its Own?
True enough, teeth can sometimes recover from injury. For instance, a tooth might repair itself over time if it has a crack along its exterior. Remineralization could take place that rebuilds its enamel.
However, such recovery wouldn’t apply to a chipped tooth; it’d be too damaged to heal on its own. After all, you’ve likely lost a bit of its underlying layer and not just its enamel. Therefore, the chip would remain even if other uncomfortable symptoms faded. For this reason, the issue needs to be addressed by a dental professional.
How Your Local Dentist Can Help
Your dentist will likely recommend one of two treatments for a chipped tooth. They are:
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a procedure that applies tooth-colored composite resin to damaged teeth. Your dentist then sculps this applied material to hide tooth chips, gaps, and other smile flaws. The process finishes with a special light that hardens the resin in place.
Dental bonding treatment is often affordable and done in a single appointment. Furthermore, its results last for roughly ten years with good oral care.
Veneers
Veneers are thin porcelain layers applied to the front surface of teeth. Similar to dental bonding, these layers hide dental imperfections like stains, chips, cracks, etc.
However, veneers are a higher-quality treatment. They’re permanent and address a wider variety of cosmetic issues. Plus, they work for up to twenty years when given proper dental hygiene. Veneer placement, therefore, tends to be a more expensive procedure.
Regardless of which service you choose, the dentist will give you instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. These may include teeth-cleaning tips, dietary restrictions, a nightguard that prevents further damage, and follow-up visits.
While it’d be great if chipped teeth could heal themselves, they don’t have that power. Still, a chipped tooth in Raleigh can be fixed if you see your dentist for the right care!
About the Practice
Dr. Christine Laster is a dentist based in Raleigh, NC. Her specialties are preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, not to mention emergency dental treatments. Furthermore, she treats patients of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you need a checkup or a dental implant, her skills are up to the task. Dr. Laster currently practices at Rensch and Laster: Family & Cosmetic Dentistry and can be reached at her website or by phone at (919)-787-0355.
