There are several different things that can cause a chip on one or more teeth. This is even more likely to befall you if you grind your teeth at night or if you tend to use your teeth as tools.
If the chip is in a critical location, the structural compromise could lead to further fractures and even more significant complications.
To prevent this from occurring, Dr. Bryce Hanson might recommend a dental crown to replace the entire tooth enamel layer. This is essentially a replica tooth that is cast from either porcelain, gold, or a base metal alloy.
This is typically a two-stage restoration that starts with your dentist using a drill to remove the tooth enamel to form an abutment. This will later anchor the crown in your mouth. Then, an impression of the area will be taken, which will be sent to a dental lab where your new crown will be made.
At the end of the appointment, your dentist will secure a temporary crown over the abutment. It’s important to remember that this hard, plastic cap is only meant to protect the abutment. It cannot restore the full functionality of the tooth for chewing food.
We will call you back for the second appointment after the dental lab technician has completed your crown. The temporary crown will be carefully removed and your new crown will be cemented in place with a strong dental adhesive during this appointment.
If you live in the Shelley, Idaho, area and you have recently suffered a serious chip on one of your teeth, you should call 208-357-7611 to have it treated at River Valley Dental.