You may have chomped down on a hard piece of candy, resulting in a chipped tooth. First, do not panic. Next, call 32 Dental at (770) 423-1132. Until you arrive at your office, place an ice pack on the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling. If there is bleeding, apply a gauze pad to the affected tooth for about 10 minutes. When you arrive to 32 Dental, you will meet with one of our friendly dentists, Dr. Lan Vo or Dr. Sean Breckley. The respected dentists are well known for restoring chipped teeth during crown treatments. Depending on the extent of tooth damage, a dental crown may be the ideal solution for protecting and strengthening the chipped tooth. We will explain to patients in Woodstock and the surrounding areas what can be expected before, during, and after treatment.

Before treatment

The first step toward a healthier smile is meeting with one of our dentists who will thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth, and gums. The affected tooth will be examined for tooth decay. X-rays may be taken to examine the jawbone and soft tissues. Once the dentist has a diagnosis, a treatment plan will be tailored to meet your needs.

During treatment

If you are a candidate for dental crown treatment, the dentist will numb the affected tooth and surrounding areas before the procedure. We can also provide nitrous oxide, a moderate sedative, to ensure relaxation during treatment. There is typically minimal tooth preparation to ensure the crown fits precisely. The crown will be checked for ideal fit and color before placement. We provide different types of crowns to meet the unique needs of patients. Porcelain crowns may be ideal for the posterior teeth or teeth that show when smiling. These crowns are natural looking and stain resistant. Gold crowns may be recommended for the anterior teeth, where more force is exerted for chewing and grinding food. This material can withstand these forces well.

After treatment

The dentist will provide proper aftercare guidelines. These may include avoiding eating until anesthesia wears off and all numbness has disappeared. The dentist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to take for a few days after the procedure. It is important to avoid chewing on the side of the mouth where the crown is located. You should be able to brush and floss normally. Desensitizing toothpaste may be recommended if your teeth are sensitive. To reduce any discomfort or swelling, rinse your mouth with a mixture of warm salt water or prescription mouth rinse twice a day. A dental crown can last up to two decades with excellent care and maintenance.