Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry for Chipped Teeth
by drrapisarda
Even a small chip on one tooth can compromise the appearance of your smile, and it can also affect your self-confidence. A larger chip can severely weaken your tooth. It may eventually break completely. In some cases, you may even require an extraction. Dr. Rapisarda offers several restorative dentistry treatments to repair this type of damage. Dental bonding and veneers can both be great options for small to moderately sized chips. If you have a tooth with more severe damage, a crown may be in your best interests. Dr. Rapisarda will provide a thorough exam. Then he will recommend an appropriate treatment, typically preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. To undergo treatment for chipped teeth, contact our Barre, MA practice today.
Dental Bonding: A Conservative Option
Dental bonding is one of the most common treatments for a chipped tooth. Dr. Rapisarda will choose a color of composite resin that matches your smile. Then he will treat your tooth with a special solution that will microetch the dental enamel. This process will create more surface area, so the bonding agent can take a firmer hold. Next, Dr. Rapisarda will apply the material to your chipped tooth. He will sculpt the resin to fill in the recessed area and create a smooth, natural surface. If desired, he can also apply resin to the nearby teeth, covering up other cosmetic flaws, such as stains or worn edges. When he has achieved the desired effects, Dr. Rapisarda will use a curing light to harden the material. Finally, he will remove any excess resin and polish your teeth.
Bonding can be a good solution if you are looking for an affordable, yet natural, option.
Porcelain Veneers: A Highly Lifelike Effect
A porcelain veneer is another option for a moderately chipped tooth. Like bonding, a veneer will cover up the chip, and it can conceal other esthetic concerns at the same time. First, Dr. Rapisarda will need to reshape your tooth. By trimming off some enamel, he will make room for the porcelain so that it can lie flat against your tooth. He will send impressions of your tooth to a lab, where ceramists will produce your veneer or veneers. They will use state-of-the-art materials, offering durability and a natural sparkle. There are also a number of shades to choose from. Using photos of your teeth, the technicians will select a color that harmonizes with your other teeth. When the veneer has been sent back to our office, Dr. Rapisarda will use dental cement to attach it to your tooth.
A porcelain veneer will last longer than bonding, and it will have a more realistic sheen. Your upfront costs will be higher, but you may save money over time since you will not need to undergo retreatment as often.
Dental Crowns: Repair Seriously Damaged Teeth
If your tooth has a very large chip that affects your oral function, Dr. Rapisarda may recommend a dental crown. A crown will fully cover your tooth all the way to your gum line. Because of the larger size, the crowning process involves significant alteration of your tooth structure. Therefore, Dr. Rapisarda will only advise this treatment when necessary.
To place a crown, your dentist will reshape your tooth and take impressions. As with veneers, our lab will create a custom restoration to match your smile and the natural force of your bite. Crowns come in many different materials, but we typically recommend tooth-colored restorations for the most realistic effect. After the crown is finished, Dr. Rapisarda will make sure that it fits correctly, and he will affix it to your tooth. Afterwards, you should enjoy fully restored dental function.
Learn the Right Treatment for You
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Rapisarda.
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