How Can You Fix a Chipped Tooth? 6 Options to Consider

Chipping a tooth can happen quickly—from an unexpected fall, biting into something hard, or a sports injury. While it may start as a cosmetic concern, a chipped tooth can lead to more significant dental issues if left untreated. 

But don’t worry: modern dentistry offers many solutions for restoring your smile, from polishing and dental bonding for minor chips to root canals when a chip is bad enough to expose your tooth’s pulp.

What’s the Difference Between a Chipped & Cracked Tooth?

A chipped tooth refers to when a small piece of enamel—the hard, outer layer of your tooth—breaks. This can result in rough edges, but it typically doesn’t involve pain unless the damage extends beyond the enamel.

A cracked tooth, on the other hand, is usually more severe. It involves a fracture that runs through the tooth's tooth's structure and may lead to nerve damage or sensitivity. While a chipped tooth often requires minor cosmetic solutions, a cracked tooth might need more intensive treatment, such as a root canal or extraction.

Understanding the type of injury you have is important, since treatment options will vary significantly.

What Are the Complications of a Chipped Tooth?

You might think, "It's just a small chip; do I need to fix it?" Yes, you absolutely do. Even if it seems minor, a chipped tooth can lead to several complications if left untreated, including:

• Tooth Decay: The damaged area becomes vulnerable to bacteria, which could lead to cavities.
• Sensitivity: If the chip exposes the dentin layer, you may experience pain or sensitivity to hot or cold foods.
• Weakened Structure: A small chip can grow into a bigger problem, increasing the risk of further fractures.
• Aesthetic Concerns: For teeth visible when you smile, even a tiny chip can impact your confidence.

The bottom line is that a chipped tooth should be fixed, but the treatment type depends on the damage's severity.

Common Management & Treatment Options for Chipped Teeth

Dentists now have various tools and treatments to restore chipped teeth seamlessly. Depending on the chip's size, location, and severity, your dentist might recommend one of the following options.

1. Polishing

For minor chips, polishing or smoothing the rough edges may be enough to reshape the tooth. This quick, painless fix prevents irritation to your tongue or cheeks while ensuring the damage doesn’t worsen.

2. Bonding

Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the chipped area. This resin is then shaped to match the rest of the tooth. It's a minimally invasive option for small to medium chips, especially on front teeth. Bonding is relatively affordable and looks natural.

3. Veneers

For those focused on aesthetics, veneers are a fantastic option. These thin, custom-made shells cover the tooth's front surface, concealing chips and other imperfections. Veneers are a popular choice but can cost more than alternative solutions.

4. Crowns

A dental crown may be the best option for larger chips or cases where the tooth’s structure has weakened significantly. Crowns are essentially caps made from porcelain or metal that encase the entire tooth to restore its shape and function. Crowns are expensive and take longer to install than bonding or veneers, but they are highly durable.

5. Fillings

Your dentist might recommend a filling if the chip is on a back tooth. Fillings use durable dental materials to restore the shape and function of the tooth. They’re not as flashy as veneers but they often do their job effectively for molars or less visible teeth.

6. Root Canals

If a chip exposes the tooth’s pulp—the part of the inside of the tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are—a root canal may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue and prevent infection. The tooth is typically restored with a crown after the procedure. While root canals are known to be intimidating, they’re much less painful than you’d expect and are highly effective for saving damaged teeth.

What is the Best Option for a Chipped Tooth?

The "best" solution depends on multiple factors, including the location, size, and degree of the damage, as well as your budget and aesthetic goals. Options like polishing or bonding might suffice for minor chips, while more significant damage may require veneers, crowns, or even a root canal.

Your dentist can recommend the most effective treatment based on your specific circumstances.

How Do I Take Care of Myself If I’ve Chipped a Tooth?

While professional treatment is essential, there are steps you can take immediately after chipping a tooth to prevent further damage and ease discomfort.

What to Do Immediately

1. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
2. If you can find the chip, save it and bring it to your dentist. Sometimes, they can reattach it.
3. Avoid hard foods until your tooth is repaired. Stick to soft or lukewarm foods.
4. Use dental wax to cover sharp edges and protect your cheeks and tongue.
5. Schedule a dentist appointment as soon as possible to prevent complications.

Is It Ever Too Late to Fix a Chipped Tooth?

Fortunately, it’s never too late to fix a chipped tooth. However, leaving a chip or crack untreated for an extended period may lead to complications such as decay or further fractures. Even if it has been months—or years—since the chip occurred, modern dental treatments can restore your tooth effectively.

Take the First Step Towards Fixing Your Chipped Tooth

A chipped tooth may seem minor, but the potential risks and complications shouldn’t be ignored. The good news is that today’s dental technology makes fixing a chipped tooth easier than ever. 

McKenzie Towne Family Dental is committed to providing you with the dental care you need, be it a simple polish or a comprehensive solution like a crown. Contact us today to book a consultation and explore the options available to you and your chipped tooth.