Chipped a Tooth on Holiday Treats?

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Restorative Dentistry in San Mateo to the Rescue!

You’re having a great time at your holiday party, munching on colorful cookies, sweets, and savory snacks. It was that bite down on the candy cane that got your attention. You run your tongue over your teeth and feel what’s happened. You’ve chipped a tooth!

How can that be? Isn’t dental enamel supposed to be a strong, protective covering?

Yes, it can be. But there are objects and activities, like biting down on hard things (such as candy or a pen), using your teeth as a tool, or participating in contact sports, that can challenge the healthiest teeth. Even something as simple as an ice cube can cause damage, especially in a tooth with a previous crack or decay.

Here’s the good news; most minor chips and cracks can be repaired by a cosmetic and restorative dentist in San Mateo.

Cracks and chips not repaired promptly can worsen over time, and so early diagnosis and treatment are essential. It’s important to prevent the crack from spreading below the gum line (which may require extraction). Likewise, an unattended chipped tooth may lead to decay, infection, and pain.

Tips for Prevention

The wisest thing is to prevent chipped and cracked teeth from occurring at all. Dr. Michael Wong offers these preventive suggestions:

  • Refrain from unhealthy habits like chewing on ice, pens, unpopped popcorn kernels, and fingernails.
  • Never use your teeth as tools to open packages, carry items, open bottles, or remove tags. (There are plenty of healthier options to help you!)
  • If you grind your teeth or play a contact sport, ask about a mouthguard for protection.
  • Falls present a serious risk for older adults and those with balance issues, and may lead to injuries including chipped or broken teeth. If you are a fall risk, talk to your doctor about safety measures around your home that will lessen the risk.

Our care team offers restorative services, such as porcelain veneers and dental crowns, to repair teeth that have been chipped, cracked, or broken. In a comfortable setting that includes IV sedation dentistry, our office is committed to excellent services and exquisite results.

Would you like to know more about our restorative and cosmetic dental services? Request a consultation or schedule an appointment today. We want to see that healthy smile!