Chipped teeth can occur for a number of reasons. Maybe you were chewing on a piece of ice. Perhaps you sustained trauma in an accident. No matter what the reason, Dr. Todd B. Barsky can fix a chipped tooth in our Miami, FL dental practice. Chipped teeth are certainly a cosmetic concern.
But did you know that chips and fractures can actually weaken the structure of a tooth?
That is why it is so important to address the issue as soon as possible. There are a few different options for repairing damaged teeth. The exact treatment will largely depend on the severity of the issue. Here, we will discuss how to fix a chipped tooth and keep your smile looking great for years to come.
Materials to Fix a Chipped or Broken Tooth with Dr. Barsky
Dental Bonding
For repairing minor chips, dental bonding is the most cost-effective option. Best of all, the procedure can be performed in a matter of minutes in our office. Dental bonding is performed by applying a composite resin material to the chipped tooth in order to conceal the imperfection. The dental bonding material is gradually layered onto the tooth, and then hardened with a dental curing light. Next, Dr. Barsky will shape the tooth and polish it so the material will reflect light in the same way as your natural tooth structure. The end result is a complete, balanced, and healthy smile.
Porcelain Veneers
Another option for fixing chipped teeth is porcelain veneers. These wafer-thin restorations are bonded to the front surfaces of the teeth. Custom-crafted and color-matched to your surrounding teeth, dental veneers offer a blended and brilliant smile.
Typically, porcelain veneers require two office visits. Before receiving your veneers, small amounts of enamel must be removed to allow for optimal bonding. (Some porcelain veneers do not require this step. Dr. Barsky can discuss your options with you if you are interested in no-prep veneers.) For the next step, impressions will be taken of your teeth. These will be sent to our trusted dental lab so they can fabricate your new custom restorations.
Once the lab sends us your veneers, we will schedule you for a second appointment in our office. Dr. Barsky will try the veneers on to ensure they fit properly. If everything looks good, they will be bonded to your teeth. Dr. Barsky will check your bite and make any necessary final adjustments.
Dental Veneers Before and After
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are similar to porcelain veneers. However, a crown covers the entire tooth structure, rather than just the front surface. Dental crowns may be more beneficial for larger chips and fractures. Like veneers, dental crowns typically require two office visits, and the procedure is essentially performed in a similar fashion.
These restorations can be fabricated from an array of materials, including porcelain, zirconia, and porcelain-fused-to-metal. The type of crown necessary will depend on your specific situation. During your consultation, Dr. Barksy can help you decide which type of crown you require.
Dental Crowns Before and After
Actual Dental Crown Patient of Dr. Todd Barsky
Learn More about our Restorative and Cosmetic Treatments
If you have a chipped tooth and would like to explore your treatment options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Barsky. You can call our office at (786) 542-1071 or contact click here to submit an online appointment request.
