If you have suddenly chipped a tooth in the front of your mouth and you realize that the damage is quite noticeable, then you may want to have your tooth repaired as soon as possible. In some cases, the repair will be a cosmetic one where dental bonding is used to fill in the chip. However, there are certain things that might stop your dentist from completing the simple fix. Keep reading to learn what they are.

The Chip Is Caused By Decay

If the chip in your tooth has revealed a big cavity, then more extensive treatment may need to be completed. In this case, your dentist will look at the percentage of the tooth that has been damaged due to both the chip and the decay. Also, the professional will look at the amount of the tooth that has already been repaired with dental fillings. For example, if over 50% of the tooth has already been treated with fillings, then there will be very little natural tooth material to hold the bonding material in place and a crown will be needed instead. 

Also, if decay is deep and has reached close to the pulp chamber, then a root canal may be needed. The treatment will lead to a tooth that is drier and more brittle, so a crown is needed in this case too. 

If a crown is not needed, then resin composite can be used to restore the appearance of the tooth only the cavity is removed. The composite material is almost exactly the same thing used during bonding. Basically, you will experience a repaired and aesthetically pleasing tooth once your treatment is over.

The Tooth Has Already Been Bonded

Most people prefer bonding over other types of cosmetic dentistry techniques because it is quick, easy, and non-invasive. However, resin is not nearby as hard as your own enamel, and it is not as tough and resistant to damage as porcelain. Bonding will chip away over time and if your tooth has already gone through the bonding process several times, then it is time to look at alternatives.

While crowning is a good option, you may not need a dental crown if your tooth is healthy. In this case a veneer might be the best choice. Since veneers are thinner than crowns, far less of your tooth material needs to be ground away. 

If you do think that a veneer may be a good choice, then have your dentist evaluate the rest of your teeth so that other ones can be identified that contain a good deal of bonding material. It may be wise to have veneers placed on these teeth as well. For more information, contact experts like Davis R Troup DDS PA.

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