Even though your teeth are tough, there are still times when a hard knock can badly chip the tooth enamel. This can result from a blow to the face or even something as simple as nibbling on pencils and pens. Even if you don’t feel pain, you should never take a chipped tooth lightly. The damaged enamel can eventually harbor tooth decay. Since the enamel has already been compromised by the chip, new decay could pose serious complications.
If the chip is too severe to be repaired with a filling, your dentist, Dr. Michael Hall, might recommend restoring all of the tooth enamel with a dental crown in Bend, Oregon.
Dr. Michael Hall will start the treatment by examining the tooth and taking some X-rays to assess the extent of the damage. If the dentin, pulp or root of the tooth has been damaged, he might need to try other treatment options before a crown can be mounted.
Dr. Michael Hall will then use a drill to remove the majority of the enamel layer of the tooth, leaving the healthy interior of the tooth completely unaffected. This abutment will later anchor the crown firmly in your mouth.
Then, a detailed impression will be made of the abutment and surrounding teeth. Then, the abutment will be covered by a hard, plastic cap that is known as a temporary crown. The impression will be sent off to the dental lab where a technician will custom make your new crown.
Dr. Michael Hall will call you back into Central Oregon Dental Center for a short second appointment when your crown is completed. At this time, he will remove the temporary crown and will cement your new crown into place.
A chipped tooth should never be taken lightly. You should call Dr. Michael Hall at 541-389-0300 to understand your treatment and restoration options for your chipped tooth in Bend, Oregon.
