What are my options for a broken lower left front tooth? The chip is about ¼ inch long. The tooth doesn’t hurt. It’s been broken for three months, but I’m tired of people asking me about it. Thanks. Trent from Seattle
Trent,
Lower incisors are particularly susceptible to chipping due to their frequent contact with the upper incisors during biting and chewing. A fall or other trauma can break a tooth. When a chip occurs, restoring the tooth with composite resin requires careful consideration of the bite (occlusion).
The Importance of Occlusal Considerations
Before treating a tooth, a cosmetic dentist will consider how your teeth meet when you bite or chew and which treatment options will remain stable despite the forces of biting and chewing.
- Stress on the Restoration: The forces generated during biting can exert significant stress on the composite restoration.
- Preventing Re-chipping: To prevent the restoration from chipping again, the dentist must carefully adjust the occlusion to minimize stress on the repaired area.
Treatment Options
Porcelain veneers can be an effective solution for restoring lower chipped incisors, particularly in cases where occlusal adjustments are necessary. Veneers allow for precise shaping and contouring, ensuring proper alignment and reducing stress on the teeth.
Composite bonding may be an alternative to porcelain veneers. A skilled cosmetic dentist can achieve excellent results with bonding. However, careful attention to occlusal factors is crucial for long-term success.
Brian LeSage, DDS, an accredited fellow of cosmetic dentistry in Beverly Hills, sponsors this post.
Dental bonding pictures of how Dr. LeSage seamlessly restored a patient’s chipped tooth.