If you have a minor chip in your tooth, you may be able to leave it alone. However, if the chip is more severe, it is important to visit a dentist to have it fixed. A severely chipped tooth can leave the internal structure of the tooth exposed, making it vulnerable to decay and infection. It can also damage the nerve of the tooth or cause an abscess, which is very dangerous for your health.
In some cases, repairing a chipped tooth may be for aesthetic reasons only. If there is no pain and the chip is small and unlikely to break further, the dentist may not repair it. However, it is not advisable to leave a chipped tooth untreated as it can expose the root of the tooth and cause nerve damage. Old fillings or restorations designed to strengthen and protect teeth can also cause a chipped or broken tooth.
A crown can help stabilize a chipped tooth and improve its appearance and bite force. Depending on the damage and previous condition of the chipped or cracked tooth, your dentist may suggest different options. Cavities create holes that weaken teeth from the inside, increasing the risk of breaking or chipping once the tooth can no longer withstand biting and chewing. If you delay or skip an appointment with your dentist, the broken or chipped tooth can become infected and cause irreversible damage.
This structurally weakens the tooth and can lead to it breaking completely.
