Dental Clinic in Kitsilano
Dental Clinic in Kitsilano
Chipped Tooth Dentist in Kitsilano, Vancouver
Chipped Tooth in Kitsilano, Vancouver
A chipped tooth is a common dental concern. It is usually caused by aging, biting on something hard, teeth-grinding habits, or trauma. In many cases, a chip on the tooth does not cause pain. However, it can look quite unsightly when you smile and may feel rough or sharp on the tongue.
The treatment for a chipped tooth depends on how large the damage is. But whether you have a small or large chip on your tooth, it is always best to get it checked with your dentist so they can help restore your smile as soon as possible. For a step-by-step guide on what to do next, learn how to fix a chipped or broken tooth in Kitsilano.
Understanding Chipped Teeth
The tooth is largely made up of the strongest substance in the body which is the enamel. This is the outermost layer of the tooth that protects it from daily wear and tear, injury, and decay. Despite being durable and resilient, the enamel does have its limits.
If it is subjected to excessive wear or a forceful blow, it can chip or crack. If this happens, the tooth surface can become jagged, rough, and disfiguring.
Symptoms of a Chipped Tooth
Small chips on the tooth do not have major symptoms, but you can tell it is there when you look in the mirror. Otherwise, you may not know you have it at all. If you do have symptoms, it may include:
- Feeling of a jagged or rough tooth edge
- Gum irritation
- Tongue irritation after running it against the rough tooth surface
- Pain when biting
Chipped Tooth Repair
If you have a very small chip on the tooth, you can get away with not getting treated. Your dentist may simply consider reshaping the tooth to remove sharp edges. But, if there is sizable damage to the tooth, some treatment options include:
Dental Bonding
The most common solution to a small chip on the tooth is dental bonding or filling. This treatment involves a tooth-coloured composite resin moulded on the tooth to repair the chip. Then, it is hardened with a curing light to make the restoration last a long time. This is a simple, relatively pain-free, and quick procedure for a chipped tooth.
Dental Veneers
Veneers use composite resin or porcelain material to repair minor dental imperfections such as a chipped tooth. This requires a minimal amount of tooth to be shaved off. Then, the veneer is glued to the tooth surface to improve the size, shape, length, and colour of the tooth.
Dental Crowns
A large chip on the tooth requires a bit more work to repair the appearance and function of the tooth. The treatment of choice is a crown. This is a dental cap that covers the entire tooth to protect what is left of it.
Some types of crowns are plastic, porcelain, metal-porcelain, or zirconia. Ideally, a chip on the front tooth is best restored with all-porcelain for superior aesthetics. Meanwhile, metal-porcelain or zirconia is best for the back tooth for excellent support when chewing.
Root Canal Therapy
Lastly, a severely chipped tooth with damage that has reached the tooth pulp needs root canal therapy to remove bacteria. Then, the tooth will be sealed from the inside to prevent reinfection. After this, the tooth will capped with a dental crown to complete your treatment.
If you have a chipped tooth, our team at Arbutus Station Dental can help you get your smile back! Call us today to schedule your appointment and learn about your treatment options.
Meet Our Kitsilano Dentist
Dr. Christopher Low, an experienced dentist based in Kitsilano, established his roots in this community alongside his wife and family. Dr. Low, a native of Victoria, British Columbia, embarked on his academic journey by pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at the University of Victoria, successfully earning his degree in 2003.
Following his undergraduate pursuits, Dr. Low's fascination with the realm of biological sciences initially led him toward a career in academia. He started his professional journey at the BC Cancer Research Centre, where he conducted pioneering research in prostate cancer. This period of scholarly engagement culminated in the completion of a Master's degree in Oncology from the University of British Columbia (UBC) in 2010.
Subsequently, Dr. Low's evolving interest in clinical practice prompted him to further his education, culminating in him earning his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from UBC in 2014. This academic achievement was complemented by a year-long general practice residency at Montefiore Medical Centre in the Bronx, New York. During this pivotal phase of his career, Dr. Low gained invaluable experience across the spectrum of general dentistry, including the management of emergency dental cases.
Beyond his professional endeavours, Dr. Low can often be found outdoors amidst the picturesque landscapes of our local mountains, indulging in activities such as mountain biking and snowboarding. When not pursuing his adventurous passions, he dedicates cherished moments to his family life in the city, enjoying quality time with his wife Julia and actively engaging with their lively 6-year-old son, Theo, and their 2-year-old daughter, Georgia
Your Trusted Dental Partner
Why Choose Arbutus Station Dental
Your trusted dental partner
Why Choose Arbutus Station Dental
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