Can a Dentist Fix Chipped or Uneven Teeth? (Options in Benfleet Explained)

Chipped teeth are rarely a cause for concern from a clinical perspective, but they can impact confidence. Chipped teeth can make your smile appear less even and balanced. If you would like to correct chips in your teeth, read on to learn some of the most popular options available in Benfleet.

What can be done for chipped teeth?

Chips in your teeth can happen for a lot of reasons. You might have bitten into something very hard like a toffee or a popcorn kernel, or perhaps you have suffered a trauma to the face that has caused a chip.

The first thing to do is visit your dentist to make sure that there isn’t any hidden damage. You might only be able to see the chip, but there could be cracks below the gum line that could be problematic further down the line.

Your dentist may also want to smooth any very sharp edges to help prevent cuts to your cheek and tongue. Next, you can start to explore treatment options to restore your smile.

Composite bonding

The most cost effective option would be composite bonding. This is a fast and highly effective option for quickly restoring single teeth. A soft and pliable resin is applied directly to the tooth and then shaped.

Once the desired shape is achieved, the resin is cured with UV light, causing it to set hard like real tooth material. This can then be smoothed and polished to create a realistic finish. This is one of the most cost-effective options available for fixing a chipped tooth.

Composite bonding will wear down after around 5 years, and then you will either need to renew it or replace it with a more permanent option. This makes it a great choice for those who don’t want to spend a lot on their restoration, but still want to fix their smile.

Crowns

For a long-term solution to chipped or uneven teeth, you could also consider a porcelain crown. This is a small cap made from porcelain that fits over your tooth. It is held in place with a special dental cement that keeps it secure.

This is a more natural-looking restoration, as porcelain can mimic the subtle shine and translucence of natural tooth enamel. Crowns can last in excess of 10-12 years with good care. If they come loose, they can be fixed back in place.

This kind of dental restoration is ideal if you are looking for something long-lasting and very realistic.

Veneers

If you have multiple chipped or uneven teeth, or if the edges of your teeth are thinning and exposed, you might consider veneer treatment. Veneers are shells or porcelain that fit over the front of your teeth. Like crowns, they are fixed in place with dental cement.

They can last a long time with good care, and can also help to correct the shade and alignment of your teeth. The treatment is completed over multiple visits, but you can typically enjoy a complete smile makeover in a matter of weeks.

The underlying tooth surface will need to be prepared to make space for the veneer, which means that you’ll always need to wear a veneer. If your veneer breaks or comes loose, you’ll need to replace it, or your teeth will be exposed and vulnerable to damage.

The right option for you will depend on your budget and your long-term goals. If you’re looking for a fast and cost-effective solution, composite bonding would be ideal. For long-term solutions, look to crowns and veneers for a satisfactory fix.