How Do Dentists Fix a Chipped Tooth?
Accidents happen – from biting down on something hard to slipping during sport, a chipped or broken tooth is one of the most common dental injuries. While it can be worrying, the good news is that dentists can fix a chipped tooth in several different ways, depending on how much of the tooth is damaged.
Here’s what you need to know about chipped tooth treatment and how Riverdale can help.
Find your nearest Riverdale practice.
When to See a Dentist
Not every small chip is an emergency, but it’s always worth having it checked. A chipped tooth can:
- Cause pain or sensitivity if the inner layers are exposed.
- Make the tooth more vulnerable to further damage.
- Lead to sharp edges that irritate your tongue or cheeks.
If you’re in pain, bleeding, or have lost a large part of your tooth, call for an emergency dental appointment.
Treatments for a Chipped Tooth
1. Dental Bonding
For small chips, your dentist can use composite bonding – a tooth-coloured resin that is shaped to fill the missing area and then hardened with a special light. Bonding blends in naturally with your other teeth and can usually be completed in a single visit. It’s one of the most common solutions for dentist repair of a chipped tooth.
2. Veneers
If the chip is larger or on a front tooth, your dentist may recommend dental veneers. A veneer is a thin shell of porcelain or composite placed over the front of the tooth to restore its appearance. Veneers are durable, natural-looking, and can also improve the overall shape and colour of your smile.
3. Dental Crowns
When a significant portion of the tooth has broken off, a dental crown may be the best solution. A crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth, protecting it from further damage and restoring function. Crowns are especially useful for back teeth, which take the most pressure when chewing.
4. Root Canal Treatment
If the chip has exposed the inner pulp of the tooth and caused infection, your dentist may need to perform root canal treatment before restoring the tooth with a crown or filling. This protects the long-term health of the tooth.
Temporary Fixes Until You See a Dentist
If you chip a tooth outside practice hours:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Keep any broken fragments safe in case they can be reattached.
- Use dental wax (available from pharmacies) to cover sharp edges and protect your mouth.
- Avoid biting on the chipped tooth until it’s repaired.
These steps aren’t a replacement for proper chipped tooth treatment but can help until your appointment.
Book a Chipped Tooth Appointment at Riverdale
At Riverdale Healthcare, our dentists are experienced in treating chipped teeth – from simple composite bonding to full crowns and veneers. We’ll always recommend the least invasive treatment that restores both comfort and appearance.
Find your nearest Riverdale practice.
Dentistry can sometimes feel full of unfamiliar terms. A scan changes that. When dentists show patients what is happening on screen, the conversation becomes clearer, easier to follow, and easier to remember.
This is especially useful for spotting early warning signs – such as gum recession, enamel wear, or bite issues. Patients can see the issue for themselves and understand why it matters, making them better equipped to take action before problems become serious.
