What does a chipped tooth refer to?

A chipped tooth refers to a condition where a small amount of enamel has been knocked off the tooth's surface. This can occur due to various reasons, such as trauma from biting hard foods, sports injuries, or accidents. When enamel is chipped, the tooth may be sensitive to temperature changes, and there might be some aesthetic concerns, especially if the chip is located on a front tooth. Treatment options for a chipped tooth can range from polishing and smoothing to cosmetic bonding or dental crowns, depending on the extent of the damage and the location of the chip.

In contrast, other options describe different dental issues: a completely lost tooth denotes a tooth that is avulsed or extracted; a severe fracture extending below the gumline indicates a significant break that may involve complications requiring root canal treatment; and a dental abscess refers to a localized infection that occurs at the root of the tooth or in the surrounding gums, typically associated with decay or gum disease. Each of these situations is distinct from what is characterized by a chipped tooth, highlighting the specific nature of the described condition.