April 10, 2004

By: Anita Gittens
Website: http://www.teeth-whitening-smiles.com

Chipped Tooth – Don't Worry About Chipped Teeth In Children

Kids will be kids and accidents do happen! And if an accident happens to end with a chipped tooth, it's not the end of the world. In fact during February, which is National Children's Dental Health Month, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry wants to reassure parents that a chipped tooth can easily be restored to its natural appearance.

A playground accident, a fall off a bike or a knock in the mouth with a ball - these incidents happen everyday. I want to reinforce how easily something can be done to restore the tooth to its original appearance, says AACD President Mike Malone, DDS of Lafayette, LA. A chipped tooth can also make a child or teenager very self-conscious.

Today, with the improved strength in bonding materials, we can restore a tooth that is as much as half chipped off. With this procedure we smooth off the rough edges and then build up the tooth to match the rest with natural-looking composite or porcelain bonding materials. This leaves a strong and solid tooth that is functional for up to 10 years.

I have a patient who is a high school senior. Seven years ago he chipped off half of his front right tooth. We built it up with bonding and today it still looks great, just like his other natural teeth, says Dr. Malone.

Children are especially vulnerable to having their teeth knocked or chipped when the teeth first erupt into the mouth. Because, as teeth are coming through and settling into alignment, they tend to stick out and are more susceptible to injury.

Typically, front teeth are the first permanent, or secondary, teeth to appear; the lower ones first followed by the upper front teeth. These typically come through between the ages of six and eight. However, some children will get them as early as five years old. My advice to parents is don't panic if trauma occurs. We can bond both primary and permanent teeth. So sporting a half chipped primary tooth while awaiting the permanent to come through is not the only option for your child.

Also, says Dr. Malone, If a tooth turns gray after it has been traumatized, we can also help. The gray color is often due to bleeding inside the tooth from the trauma. In many cases a tooth can be either bleached or bonded to mask the gray discoloration. This will achieve a strong, natural look.

Author Notes:

Anita Gittens contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.teeth-whitening-smiles.com.  Everything you need to know to get a whiter, brighter smile!