Unfortunately teeth are not indestructible, even with the best dental hygiene practices. Trauma to the mouth can cause an array of problems from a chipped tooth to a tooth that is completely broken off. Cosmetic and reconstructive dentistry is a special aspect of dentistry that addresses repairs to damaged teeth. The treatment for a chipped tooth will vary dependent on how badly the tooth is damaged.

One of the first things a dentist will do for a chipped tooth is to assess how the injury occurred, and most likely take dental x-rays. The dentist will also inquire about any pain the patient may be having as a result of the injury. If there is little or no pain and the dental x-rays show no root damage, the dentist may repair a chipped tooth in one of a few different ways.

If a chipped tooth is very minimally damaged, the dentist may be able to file the tooth smooth again. He or she may also recommend doing nothing if the damage is very minimal. However, in many cases, even minor chips are treated with either composite or porcelain veneers. Veneers are bonded directly to the tooth, giving it a smooth, natural appearance.

If a tooth is chipped badly or there is pain when chewing or drinking, the chipped tooth may need a crown. A crown is a cap that covers the tooth and both protects it and improves its appearance. Similarly, a badly chipped tooth may also be filled. The same fillings a dentist uses to repair a tooth damaged by cavities can also be used to repair a chipped tooth. Veneers, crowns, and fillings can all be made to match existing teeth.

In the event that a chipped tooth turns out to be more badly damaged than first believed, the extent to which it needs to be repaired may be greater. A damaged root may require that the tooth be extracted and replaced. If a filling, crown, or veneer becomes chipped, you should have it fixed.

If you suffer trauma or injury to the mouth and find damage to your teeth or are in pain, you should visit a dentist as soon as possible. Any part of the tooth that you find should be taken with you to your dentist. Sometimes a chipped tooth or even a broken tooth can be repaired easily if attention is immediate. Waiting only increases the likelihood of further deterioration caused by unseen damage.