A Chipped Tooth Requires Attention

The enamel layer of your teeth is very hard and extremely durable, yet there are times when a fall or blow to the face can actually chip one of your teeth. This is even more likely if you participate in contact sports without the protection of a mouth guard, or you grind your teeth at night on a regular basis.

Most chips are limited to the enamel layer of a tooth. However, if you experience sharp pain or heightened sensitivity, it might mean the damage has penetrated the dentin or pulp of the tooth. This could require a root canal to effectively repair.

Even if a chip is limited to the enamel layer and doesn’t cause pain, you should still have it looked at. The compromised surface area can quickly harbor tooth decay. Since some of the tooth enamel is missing any decay that forms in a chip can quickly spread deep into the tooth.

Dr. Wendy McCurdy might be able to repair a minor chip with a filling. If the chip has caused significant damage to the enamel layer, then she might recommend fitting the tooth for a crown. This will effectively replace all of the tooth enamel with a material such as porcelain, gold or a base metal alloy.

If you have a chipped tooth, you should call Dr. Wendy McCurdy’s office in Hattiesburg, Mississippi at 601-583-2000 to explore your treatment and restoration options.