Fast Help for a Chipped Tooth in Fresno
That moment of impact, followed by the sudden, strange feeling of a rough edge on your tooth, can be alarming. A chipped tooth is a common dental injury, but that doesn’t make it any less stressful. At OnCall Dental – Fresno, we understand that you need fast, effective solutions. Dr. J. Art Mirelez, Jr., and Dr. Christopher Gates are dedicated to providing immediate care to relieve discomfort and restore your smile.
Why Fast Treatment for a Chipped Tooth Matters
Seeking prompt care for a chipped tooth isn’t just about appearances; it’s crucial for your overall oral health. Acting quickly can:
- Prevent Further Damage: A small chip can weaken the tooth, making it vulnerable to larger fractures.
- Avoid Infection: The inner layers of your tooth, once exposed, are susceptible to bacteria, which can lead to infection and the need for more complex treatments.
- Alleviate Pain: A chipped tooth can leave sharp edges that irritate your tongue and cheek. It can also expose sensitive nerves, causing pain when you eat, drink, or even breathe cool air.
- Preserve Function and Aesthetics: Prompt repair ensures you can continue to chew properly and feel confident in your smile.
Emergency dental services are a key part of maintaining your oral health. Our practice in Fresno, CA, offers same-day, walk-in, and after-hours care precisely for situations like this, so you never have to wait in pain.
How We Repair Damaged Teeth in Fresno & Clovis, CA
When you visit OnCall Dental – Fresno for a chipped tooth, our first step is to assess the damage. This may involve a visual exam and sometimes an X-ray to check the tooth’s root and surrounding bone. The right treatment depends on the chip’s size and location.
- Cosmetic Dental Bonding: For most minor to moderate chips, dental bonding is the ideal solution. Our dentists use a durable, tooth-colored composite resin that is skillfully applied and sculpted to match the natural shape and shade of your tooth. The material bonds directly to the tooth, seamlessly restoring its original appearance and feel in a single visit.
- Dental Crowns: If the chip is large, affects a significant portion of the biting surface, or has compromised the tooth’s structure, a dental crown may be recommended. A crown, or “tooth cap,” covers the entire visible portion of the damaged tooth. It provides superior strength and protection while restoring full function and a natural look.
- Other Immediate Steps: For very minor chips, simply smoothing and polishing the rough edge may be all that is needed. If you can’t be seen immediately, we may provide guidance for temporary measures to protect your mouth from sharp edges.
What to Do Immediately After Chipping a Tooth
If you have a chipped tooth, especially if you experience pain, bleeding, or sensitivity to temperature, it’s important to seek help right away. While you wait for your appointment, follow these steps:
- Call Us Immediately: Contact our office to schedule an emergency evaluation.
- Rinse Your Mouth: Gently rinse with warm salt water to clean the area.
- Save the Fragment: If you can find the piece of your tooth, bring it with you in a small container with milk or your own saliva.
- Avoid Biting on the Tooth: Use the other side of your mouth to chew to prevent further damage.
Don’t let a chipped tooth disrupt your life or endanger your oral health. The expert team at OnCall Dental – Fresno is here to provide the urgent, compassionate care you need. Contact us today for an evaluation and let us restore your smile.
CONTACT ONCALL DENTAL (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):
OnCall Dental – Fresno
5492 N Palm Ave Ste A
Fresno, CA 93704
559-900-2332
