FAQs About Cosmetic Dentistry for Chipped Teeth

Chipping a tooth can come as an unwelcome surprise. Fortunately, cosmetic dentists have many ways to repair broken teeth. If you have never chipped a tooth before, chances are you have questions about when to visit the dentist, treatment options, and more. Let us dive into the most frequently asked questions about chipped teeth.

Is a chipped tooth a dental emergency?

A badly chipped tooth is considered a dental emergency. For example, chips extending into the tooth's root warrant a trip to the emergency dental office. The same applies if the chipped tooth causes severe pain or discomfort, making it difficult to eat or sleep.

Not every chipped tooth is an emergency, however. If the chip is minor — such as a small chip not accompanied by tooth sensitivity, pain, or bleeding — there is no need to rush to the dentist that same day. These chips are cosmetic; they do not immediately threaten one’s health. However, the chip could get worse if left untreated. Book an appointment with our cosmetic dentist for chipped tooth repair as soon as possible.

How long can you leave a broken tooth untreated?

The more severe the chip, the sooner the patient should seek dental treatment. Painful, severely chipped teeth should be examined by a dentist immediately. A dentist should immediately examine painful, severely chipped teeth. Do not leave a broken tooth untreated longer than necessary; a crack or similar damage could also accompany a small chip. If left untreated, tooth pain, gum tenderness, infection, and tooth loss could result.

How can you stop a chipped tooth from hurting?

Dental treatment is the only way to stop the pain of a chipped tooth. However, patients can ease the pain while they wait for their dental appointment by eating soft foods. Do not chew with the broken tooth. To relieve pain, gently rinse the mouth with salt water. It can also help to take an over-the-counter medication, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Can you fix a chipped tooth at home?

No, fixing a chipped tooth without the help of a cosmetic dentist is not recommended. While it may seem possible to file down a minor chip on the front tooth, it could exacerbate the problem. For example, if a patient files too much of the tooth’s outer layer (enamel), they may remove too much and expose the tissue beneath (dentin). As a result, the tooth's integrity will be compromised, and more intensive tooth repair treatments will be necessary to restore the tooth's functionality.

How does a cosmetic dentist fix a chipped tooth?

A cosmetic dentist may repair small chips with dental bonding, which is a composite resin used to remedy tooth decay and minor imperfections. A small chip may also be filed down in the office. Dental crowns and veneers are a common treatment for more extensive chips. A root canal may be necessary if the tooth becomes infected. Dental implants can replace the extracted teeth if the chip is severe and results in tooth loss.