How Long Does It Take to Fix a Chipped Tooth?

If you’ve chipped a tooth, you might be wondering how long it will take to fix.

Your dentist can repair a chipped tooth using various methods, including dental crowns and veneers. However, the time it takes to fix your tooth will depend on the severity of the chip and the specific repair method chosen.

What are the Common Causes of Chipped Teeth?

Chipped teeth can affect people of all ages. Here are some common reasons why teeth chip:

• Biting into hard food or objects.
• Accidents and injuries.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism).
• Poor oral hygiene.
• Sudden temperature changes.
• Using teeth as tools.

Types of Broken Teeth

The type of broken tooth depends on where the damage is and how severe it is. Here are two common types:

1. Chipped Front Tooth
   A chipped front tooth is often caused by an accident or injury. It can affect the appearance of your smile. The damage can range from a small chip in the enamel to a larger fracture that goes deeper into the tooth.Minor ChipsSmall chips and cracks in the enamel usually don’t cause pain and may not require treatment.Moderate ChipsLarger chips may need to be repaired with dental bonding or a crown.Severe Chips

   If the chip reaches the tooth’s nerve, you might need a root canal and a crown.

2. Cracked Teeth
   A cracked tooth has a vertical crack that goes towards the root. A split tooth is even worse, as it’s divided into two parts. These types of damage can be serious and may lead to tooth loss.Vertical Root FracturesThese cracks start at the root and move up. Unfortunately, dentists often need to remove teeth with these types of fractures.
3. Broken Molars
   Molars are used for chewing, so they’re more prone to breaking. This can happen due to decay, biting down on something hard, or a large filling that weakens the tooth. While a broken molar might not be as noticeable as a chipped front tooth, it can still cause pain, sensitivity, and difficulty eating.

How to Care for a Chipped Tooth Until You Can See the Dentist?

Here’s what to do before you see a dentist:

• Rinse your mouth.
• Apply a cold compress.
• Take pain relievers.
• Avoid hard or sticky foods.
• Cover sharp edges.
• Keep the area clean.
• Schedule a dental appointment.

How Long Does It Take to Fix a Chipped Tooth?

The time it takes to fix a chipped tooth depends on the treatment needed.

For chips, dental bonding is a quick fix that can be done in one visit, usually taking about 30 to 60 minutes. However, for more significant damage, treatments like veneers and dental crowns require two visits over two to three weeks. Creating custom-made restorations in a dental lab requires this extra time.

If the crack is severe and reaches the tooth’s nerve, root canal therapy is necessary. This procedure typically involves one or two appointments, each lasting 90 minutes to a few hours.

In Short

The exact timeline for your chipped tooth repair varies depending on the extent of the damage, its specific location, and the general condition of your tooth. If you’re looking to restore both the look and function of your tooth, reach out to a trusted dental clinic.

At DentaLand Dentistry of Houston, we’re here to help you and your family with all your dental needs. Call us today at (832) 674-8377 to schedule an appointment!