I fell and chipped my front tooth. I went in to get it fixed but my dentist wants to do a dental crown. I left because I didn’t want to grind off most of so much of my tooth. If it’s my only option, which is what my dentist implied, then I guess I’ll do it. However, I think I should get another dentist’s opinion. What do you think? It’s not a big chip, so I’m a little unhappy with the suggested solution.
Pam
Dear Pam,
I’m glad you didn’t let him go through with the procedure. There is another, much better option, but don’t pressure your dentist into doing it. Generally, for chipped teeth or a small tooth gap, the best solution is to have dental bonding done. This uses a composite material which the dentist shapes onto the tooth to replace the missing structure. However, it is done freehand, so you want a dentist who is familiar and skilled with the procedure.
I’m guessing when your dentist suggested this was your only option because it was your only option through him. He may not have any other procedure in his repertoire for this. However, if you push him into it, it will turn out as a disaster.
Other Cosmetic Considerations with Dental Bonding
Like any other type of cosmetic work, dental bonding can be made to match any color of teeth. However, once it’s made, the color is permanent. If you decide to whiten your teeth later, your natural tooth structure will whiten, but not your bonding. You’ll have to replace the bonding to match the new color.
Because of that, I often recommend patients get any teeth whitening they may want done before they have their cosmetic work. This way any porcelain veneers, dental bonding, or porcelain crowns can be made to the bright new white color you’ve attained.
This blog is brought to you by Baton Rouge Dentist Dr. Steven Collins.