Repairing a Chipped Tooth
A dental assistant may take x-rays to determine the scope of injury to the tooth. Your dentist will examine your tooth, review x-rays, and advise you of your treatment options which may include:
- Dental Bonding & Composite Filling – If you have minor chipping on a front tooth, a simple bonding procedure is an effective, easy way to repair your tooth. First, the surface of the tooth is etched to ensure the tooth-colored composite resin will adhere properly. This material is matched to the shade of your surrounding teeth and can last for up to 10 years. After applying the composite is applied, your dentist shapes the tooth and smooths any rough edges. Finally, ultraviolet light is applied to the surface to harden the material. In many cases, this simple procedure is painless and doesn’t even require any anesthesia.
- Dental Crown – For more extensive cracking, decay, or a broken tooth, a dental crown may be necessary. A crown is a strong, durable “cap” that restores your tooth’s shape, size, and appearance. Typically made of porcelain or porcelain fused to metal, dental crowns look like natural teeth and protect weakened or decayed teeth from further damage. After administering local anesthesia, your dentist prepares and shapes the tooth and takes an impression that is used to create your crown in a professional dental lab. A temporary crown is placed on the tooth to protect it while the permanent one is being made. When it’s ready, your permanent crown is cemented to your tooth. A properly maintained crown can last for many years.
- Veneers – Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored material designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. Although veneers are often used for cosmetic enhancement, they offer a more conservative solution for issues like chips, cracks, and tooth decay. To prepare the teeth, a small amount of enamel is removed from the surface of the teeth. An impression is taken and veneers are custom-made in a dental laboratory. Temporary veneers are placed on the teeth until the permanent ones are ready. When they come back from the lab, veneers are adhered to the teeth using a procedure similar to bonding. Veneers can last 10-15 years or more with proper care.
Why Choose Us?
Whether you need emergency dental care for a chipped tooth or it’s time for your regular checkup and cleaning, Dr. Dentists Housecalls offers
full-service dental care tailored to your specific needs. We bring all necessary, state-of-the-art equipment to provide quality care to stay-at-home moms, elderly patients, those working from home, and patients who prefer the safety and convenience of having a dentist come to them. Our team follows all CDC guidelines and COVID-19 safety procedures and protocols. Your health, well-being, and comfort are our top priorities. We serve patients in Portland, OR and surrounding areas, including Vancouver, WA. Special hours are available by request.
Contact Us To Learn More
With more than 30 years of experience practicing dentistry, Dr. Ward and the team at Dr. Dentists Housecalls use state-of-the-art technology and the latest dental techniques to provide you and your family with the highest level of quality dental care. To learn more about our mobile dental care services or to schedule an appointment,
contact us online or call us at 503-285-5307 today. We look forward to meeting you and helping you reach goals for optimal dental health.
