Chipped front tooth but braces coming off soon? (Photo)

Question

I have a chipped front tooth and I'm wearing braces right now. How much damage would I cause for the long term with my teeth if I file them down? Is it really worth it? And if I do file them what's the best way to have them filed?

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

Hello there, Fortunately, your chip is very small, based on the photo you've provided.  If you were in my dental chair, I would simply file the chipped tooth and the neighboring tooth, so that they would match.  I would do this using my "high speed hand-piece."  I would not place a composite filling there because the filling would likely break off in a short period of time.  The pros:  takes about 10 minutes; very inexpensive fix; it's a permanent fix; you likely won't need to get numb; instant cosmetic results.The cons: possible increased sensitivity with hot or cold foods and beverages; sensitivity is usually very minor, but if severe, then I would recommend a placing 2 veneers (only if sensitivity is moderate to severe, which I wouldn't expect it to be).Take care and good luck to you.

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