Do you have chipped teeth? Although our teeth are naturally strong, specific stresses can cause chips, cracks, and breaks. While this may appear to be merely a cosmetic issue, a chipped tooth can indicate oral health issues. As part of its commitment to provide helpful information to its patients and the public at large, Farber Center reminds you to visit a dental care provider for routine check-ups and cleanings. During your check-ups, dentists, and hygienists will give you a thorough oral exam and discuss with you areas of concern such as chipped teeth — and what can be done to treat them. If you live on Long Island and don’t currently have a dentist, or it’s been a long time since you’ve had a check-up, contact us today to schedule an appointment.

When it comes to chipped teeth or any other holistic dental or periodontal concern, it’s essential to keep in mind the connection between oral and whole-body health. Many studies continue to explore links between healthy teeth and gums and other critical organs in the body. These include your heart, circulatory, and immune systems. Low-grade infections in the mouth can affect these vital systems, and if you have a chronic condition such as diabetes, it also can be affected. Also, for nearly all of us, a beautiful smile is essential to self-esteem and self-confidence. A chipped tooth or teeth diminishes your smile and when resolved, will make you feel better about yourself.

What Causes Chipped Teeth in Most Cases?

Common causes of chipped or cracked teeth include:

• Biting or chewing hard candies, ice cubes, or a meat bone
• Trauma to the face such as a punch or accidentally being hit playing sports
• Cavities and decay that weaken the teeth
• Poor oral hygiene, which can leave you vulnerable due to thinning tooth enamel and other issues
• Bruxism or excessive teeth grinding

How Do Dentists Treat and Repair Chipped Teeth?

Treatment of chipped teeth depends on the size and location of the chip, and the condition of the tooth in general. Even if your chip is tiny and painless, you should visit a dental professional for an exam and treatment. Catching and addressing chips and cracks early on is essential to preventing further damage. If left untreated, some may worsen over time. In more severe cases, an untreated chip might increase in size, resulting in exposed nerves. When nerves are near the surface, you’ll experience tooth sensitivity and feel pain.

In the case of a larger chip or crack, treatment might include a crown or even complete replacement of the tooth with a dental implant. Much again depends on the condition of the tooth before it was damaged. If you’ve been ignoring a cracked or chipped tooth for some time and the situation has become worse, it’s more likely you’ll need more extensive treatment. Farber Center is devoted to saving teeth and can offer you a complete range of treatment options. One of the most important reasons to keep or replace a tooth with an implant is to preserve the nearby teeth and underlying jaw bone.

A Few Simple Steps Can Help You Avoid Chipped Teeth

• Watch What You’re Eating: Biting into hard candy such as a lollipop and sucking candies are a sure way to chip a tooth. Additionally, the sugar in candy can cause tooth decay.
• Invest in a Dental Night-Guard: If you tend to grind your teeth, you may be doing it in your sleep as well. Buying in a dental night-guard can prevent damage from unconscious grinding.
• Maintain a Consistent and Effective Oral Health Care Regimen: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily for the best results.

Farber Center Can Help with Chipped Teeth and Any Dental Need

Farber Center for Periodontics and Dental Implants is a one-of-a-kind holistic dental practice serving Long Island. Our dentist offices in Medford NY and Hauppauge, NY, are convenient to many locations in Suffolk and Nassau Counties. We’re a broad-ranging team of professionals with the latest treatment programs for any tooth or gum issue. If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, make an appointment to visit us as soon as possible. We’ll give you a thorough oral exam and present a range of options to repair the chip or crack — or replace the entire tooth if it is weak or decayed. Our capabilities are extensive, and with us, you’ll find everything under one roof. We’re patient-centered in our approach, and if you’re apprehensive about dental exams, we’ll be gentle and put your mind at ease.