When a patient chips a tooth we often recommend a bonding procedure. In a single visit, we can repair the tooth and help protect your smile from serious complications. Do you have questions about bonding? How should we respond to a chipped tooth?
Common Questions About Dental Bonding
Question: How should we respond to a chipped tooth?
Answer: If you chip a tooth you should attempt to recover any pieces you can and bring them to the office, However, if this proves impossible we can still repair the tooth. After calling the dentist, you can place a cold compress against the side of the face to control swelling and use gauze to stem any bleeding. We suggest seeing us as soon as possible.
Question: How does a damaged tooth endanger your smile?
Answer: Even a seemingly minor tooth could potentially expose sensitive inner tooth structure to bacteria. Soon, decay can form and eventually, a dental infection. To preserve your tooth and avoid serious discomfort, we suggest seeing the dentist for treatment.
Question: How do we apply the bonding agent?
Answer: First, we clean the tooth and gently etch the surface. We then place the bonding material in several layers. The material will be shaded to better blend with the tooth. We then sculpt and mold the tooth as the material cures under a light. Finally, the tooth is polished. The entire process takes only a single visit.
Question: What other issues can treatment address?
Answer: We can also use bonding to mask teeth stains and close gaps between teeth. If you have any questions about the procedure, or if you would like to schedule a visit, remember that we offer a free initial cosmetic consultation.
