Dental emergencies in children can occur at any time, despite your best efforts. Even if you have them brushing and flossing daily, you never know when your child might bite into something too hard and chip a tooth. If it’s a minor fracture, you might think it’s not a big deal. Some parents in this situation don’t take their little one to see their pediatric dentist right away because they figure that a small break doesn’t need to be addressed immediately. Others assume it’ll eventually heal on its own so it’s not worth the cost of visiting their dentist.
But will your kid’s chipped tooth actually take care of itself in time? Keep reading to find out!
Why Do Some Parents Believe Teeth Will Mend Themselves?
When your child breaks a bone, you know it’ll eventually heal. Whether it’s a major problem requiring a cast or a minor hairline fracture, it can eventually regrow and repair itself. Many parents therefore mistakenly believe that their kid’s teeth will do the same.
Unfortunately, teeth don’t have the same blood vessels running through them, so they don’t receive the same levels of fresh oxygen and nutrients. As a result, they don’t necessarily heal themselves the way other bones do. In some cases, if the damage is minimal and only impacts the outer layer, then it’s possible it could repair itself over time. Typically, though, you shouldn’t expect it to take care of itself.
Why do I Need to Take My Child to Their Dentist for a Chipped Tooth?
If your child chipped their tooth, then its structure is compromised and it’s much more vulnerable to additional harm. Bacteria can penetrate the crack and infect the roots, or it might even break further. That’s why it’s important to take them to see their dentist sooner rather than later.
Your little one’s pediatric dentist will need to examine their mouth to determine the full extent of the damage to recommend appropriate solutions. This may include X-rays and other images to get a comprehensive picture of the injury.
How Will My Child’s Chipped Tooth Be Treated?
Depending on the severity of their situation, your child’s dentist might suggest a solution like dental bonding to repair their tooth. If it’s a minor issue in a baby tooth that isn’t likely to impact their oral health, they might simply suggest additional at-home hygiene tips, dietary restrictions, or oral devices like a nightguard to prevent further harm. That tooth will fall out eventually so more complex repairs may not be necessary.
Taking your child to their dentist if they have a damaged tooth is the best way to preserve their happy, healthy smile!
About the Practice
At Capezio Loiben Pediatric Dentistry, children at all stages of dental development benefit from two compassionate dentists who provide a wide range of services, including emergency dentistry. While they prefer to take their time and get to know their patients’ dental needs, they know how to act fast in urgent situations. They provide same-day appointments, so your child doesn’t have to wait for relief. Plus, they accept many types of dental insurance so that cost won’t keep your little one from receiving the care they need. If your child chipped a tooth and you need help, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (847) 459-9100.