Most patients only go to the dentist when they are experiencing discomfort. Dental abnormalities that do not cause pain, such as a chipped tooth, are often disregarded. If you have a chipped tooth and choose not to get it fixed, it will only be a matter of time before it leads to another dental condition.
Keep reading to know the four dangerous consequences of leaving your chipped teeth untreated.
1. Potential Risk of Hurting Your Tongue
Your tongue is one of the most critical muscles in your body. It helps you eat, talk, and swallow. It also helps keep your teeth clean. But did you know that your tongue can also be a source of pain? You may risk tongue pain if you have a chipped tooth. The reason is that the jagged edge of a chipped tooth can cut or scrape your tongue. It can lead to pain and bleeding.
If you have a chipped tooth, you must see a dentist as soon as possible. They can smooth out the edge of the tooth to prevent further injury. Sometimes, they may also recommend bonding or veneers to protect the tooth and improve its appearance.
2. Possible Risk for Infection
If you did nothing to treat your chipped teeth, you have a greater chance of developing an infection than if you had treated them. The chips create an opening in your teeth through which germs can enter and cause an infection. If you notice that your tooth has been chipped, you should make an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible so that they can repair the tooth and keep an infection from developing.
3. Can Cause Heightened Sensitivity
Your teeth are covered in a hard outer layer of enamel. This enamel protects the softer inner layers of your teeth from damage. When you chip your tooth, you damage this outer layer of enamel. This damage can cause your teeth to become sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
Eating something cold may make your teeth more sensitive and hurt. Chipped teeth are more susceptible to developing cavities due to the increased surface area bacteria attach to and the thinner enamel.
4. Can Lead to Swollen Gums
If you don’t get your chipped teeth fixed immediately, it’s a common dental problem that can lead to swollen gums. When a tooth is chipped, the gum tissue that surrounds the tooth might become irritated and swollen, leading to other dental problems. It can, over time, result in gum disease, which can cause the gums to swell and bleed.
Conclusion
It is essential to remember that if you do not get your chipped teeth fixed, you could end up with more significant dental problems in the future. You may prevent these issues and maintain a healthy and attractive smile by taking proper care of your teeth and going to the dentist regularly.
Are you in need of an emergency dentist for your chipped teeth? Check out Manassas Smiles! With us, you can be confident that you will be seen by a dentist quickly and will receive stress-free dental service to eliminate discomfort and address the cause of your dental emergency. Contact us today!
