Improve the Strength and Appearance of Chipped Teeth

William Couvelis, DDS • March 20, 2017

Enamel, the hard, mineral substance surrounding each tooth, is one of the strongest substances in the body. Despite its strength, tooth enamel can be damaged. One common form of dental damage is a chip. Chipped teeth compromise the strength and aesthetics of the smile. Even more concerning, a deep chip can expose the nerves and tissues that lie within the central structures of the teeth, thus increasing the risk of infection and other oral health problems. For cosmetic and health reasons, it is ideal to treat a chipped tooth as soon as possible.

At North Pier Dental, we offer dental procedures to repair damaged teeth. Many of these treatments are suitable for chipped teeth. Dr. William J. Couvelis explores treatments for chipped teeth with his Chicago, IL patients and helps them find the technique that is most appropriate for their unique situation.

Treatments for Chipped Teeth

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a common treatment for chipped teeth. Dental bonding treatment involves the application of a tooth-colored dental compound directly to the tooth that is chipped. This compound is shaped into place so that it replaces the tooth structure that has chipped off.

When the ideal shape has been achieved, the bonding compound is hardened with a special dental light. As the compound hardens, it forms a bond with the tooth. This bond improves the strength of the tooth to restore a patient’s full oral functions. The bonding material also seals off the tooth to prevent bacteria from reaching the inner nerves of the tooth, where an infection could develop. Dental bonding is a safe and affordable treatment option for patients with a chipped tooth.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are one of our most popular forms of cosmetic dentistry treatment. These fabrications are extremely thin shells that are bonded to the facial surface of the teeth during treatment. Porcelain veneers conceal cosmetic flaws such as chips while providing an added layer of strength and protection.

Like dental bonding, porcelain veneers can improve the strength and beauty of a tooth that has been chipped. One big difference between dental bonding and porcelain veneers is that porcelain veneers treatment is irreversible.

Prior to applying the veneers, Dr. Couvelis will remove a very thin layer of tooth enamel. This permanently alters the teeth so, should the porcelain veneers become worn down or damaged in the future, they will need to be replaced.

A benefit of porcelain veneers is that they can address a wide range of cosmetic blemishes at once, including discoloration, minor alignment problems, and misshapen teeth. Because of this, porcelain veneers are ideal for patients who are interested in completely making over their smile.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are restorations that enhance the strength and function of a tooth that has been badly damaged. In many cases, a chipped tooth can be adequately treated with dental bonding or porcelain veneers. However, if a chip is particularly large or deep, a dental crown offers the best protection.

During dental crown treatment, the patient’s tooth is reshaped, and the crown is placed over the tooth, much like a cap. The dental crown completely surrounds the exposed surfaces of the tooth to block out harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar. Dental crown treatment prevents serious dental complications that can lead to tooth loss and allows us to preserve much of the natural tooth structure.

Contact Us

At North Pier Dental, patients will find a comprehensive range of dental procedures that allow them to preserve the strength, health, and beauty of their smile. If you’d like to learn more about the dental treatments offered by Dr. William J. Couvelis, request an appointment below.

North Pier Dental Associates