Severe pain, swelling, or facial trauma?
Call us now — we offer same-day appointments for urgent dental problems.
Symptom guide
Chipped tooth — what to do
A small chip is usually a quick, same-visit fix. A bigger break in a front tooth is still very repairable — and often nearly invisible when it is done.
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Possible causes
Common reasons behind chipped tooth. Only an exam can confirm the cause for you.
- ✓Biting something harder than expected (ice, a fork, a fingernail)
- ✓A sports impact or a fall
- ✓An older filling chipping along its edge
- ✓Grinding or clenching wearing the edges of front teeth thin
- ✓Acid wear softening the enamel over time
When to come in — or call right away
Any of the following deserves prompt evaluation. Call us today.
- ⚠A large break that exposes the yellow inner layer of the tooth
- ⚠A chip near the gumline with bleeding that will not slow
- ⚠Sharp pain to air, cold, or sweet — that can mean the nerve is exposed
- ⚠A chip combined with a loose tooth after an injury
- ⚠Any chip with swelling of the lip, jaw, or face
What you can try right now
These are general suggestions, not medical advice. Follow the directions on any product you use, and ask your dentist or doctor if you are unsure.
- •Rinse with warm water to clear away any fragments.
- •If a piece came off and you can find it, bring it in — sometimes we can re-bond it.
- •If there is a sharp edge, dental wax (from a pharmacy) or a piece of sugar-free gum can pad it temporarily.
- •Stick to soft foods on that side until you are seen.
- •Over-the-counter pain reliever as directed on the package if needed.
How KinDentists treats chipped tooth
Treatment depends on the underlying cause — here are the services that most often resolve this for our patients.
Preventive Care
Fillings & Preventive Care
Cavity fillings and preventive dental treatments to protect and preserve your natural teeth.
Restorative Care
Crowns & Cosmetic Restorations
Dental crowns, bridges, and restorative treatments to repair damaged teeth and restore function and appearance.
Urgent Care
Emergency Dental Care
Urgent dental care for tooth pain, broken teeth, and dental emergencies. Same-day appointments available.
Common questions
Chipped Tooth FAQ
Other common symptoms
Not sure what to do next?
Call us — we will help you decide whether you need to be seen today or whether it can wait for a routine visit. Hablamos español. Nói tiếng Việt.