For most people taking care of their teeth is simply something they do every day. You probably have your own routine but it will revolve around brushing at least twice a day for two minutes, flossing once, and perhaps using some mouthwash.
The result is your teeth stay as healthy as possible and a regular visit to an Alexandria dentist will help to make sure this is the case.
This approach works as you are looking after your teeth and getting issues resolved as early as possible.
But, there are times when the unexpected happens. An accident or other trauma can chip one of your teeth. It happens in an instant but leaves you with a jagged edge in your mouth.
It’s likely your tongue will quickly feel sore as you can’t help feeling the damaged tooth. Alongside this, depending on how much has been chipped off, your nerve may have been exposed, making your tooth sensitive
You need to see a dentist urgently for remedial treatment. If you don’t you’re likely to come across the following four issues:
- Painful Teeth
As mentioned, if the chipped section is large enough the nerve will be exposed. This means your tooth will be extremely sensitive to hot and cold food and drinks. You’ll feel a bolt of pain shoot through your mouth each time these things touch the nerve. In some cases, even the air movement can cause pain.
It is likely to get worse the longer the tooth is left.
- Decay
Because your tooth is damaged bacteria can instantly get to the inside of your tooth and start attacking it. This means the rest of the tooth will start to decay, even if it was in good health up to that point.
Decay leads to further decay and can become a major issue, that’s why your exposed tooth needs to be protected as quickly as possible.
- Infections
Once the bacteria get into your chipped tooth it’s not just further decay you need to be concerned with. Bacteria can cause an infection in your tooth. This can lead to damage to your root and even, if untreated, loosen your tooth, allowing it to fall out.
It’s important to note that if you lose a tooth you’ll have a gap and this will encourage other teeth to move, potentially changing the appearance of your face.
- Loss Of Confidence
Any chipped tooth can damage your confidence, especially if the tooth is at the front of your mouth and visible when you smile. You’ll instantly be aware that others will see it. In turn, this will prevent you from smiling as much as normal.
You’ll then find you avoid situations where smiling may be necessary and start retreating from your social circle. If the chipped tooth is repaired then your confidence is unlikely to be dented. But, if left, you’re likely to become more reclusive and lose your confidence.
That can have a deliberating effect on all areas of your life and affect your life quality.
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