What to Do If You Have a Chipped Tooth: Your Guide to Treatment and Relief
Chipping a tooth is more common than you might think. Whether it’s from biting into something hard, a fall, or even teeth grinding, a chipped tooth can happen to anyone. It might look minor, but leaving it untreated can lead to discomfort, further damage, or infection.
At Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery, we regularly help patients with chipped teeth using modern, pain-free treatments. In this article, we’ll explain what causes chipped teeth, what you should do if it happens, and how we can fix it quickly and effectively.
What causes a chipped tooth?
A chipped tooth can be caused by a number of things, including:
- Biting down on something hard (like ice or a popcorn kernel)
- Accidents or sports injuries
- Grinding or clenching your teeth (bruxism)
- Tooth decay or old fillings weakening the tooth structure
- Sudden temperature changes in the mouth (like eating something very hot then drinking cold water)
Even if the chip seems small, it’s important to get it checked by a dentist to avoid complications.
How to know if you’ve chipped a tooth
Sometimes, it’s obvious: you may feel a jagged edge or see part of your tooth missing. Other times, you might not notice until you feel pain when chewing or sensitivity to hot and cold. Common symptoms include:
- A rough or sharp edge on the tooth
- Sensitivity when eating or drinking
- Pain when biting down
- Swelling or irritation around the tooth
If you suspect you’ve chipped a tooth, book an appointment with our emergency dentist in Leicester as soon as possible.
What to do immediately after chipping a tooth
If you chip a tooth, here are the steps you should follow:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling if there’s any
- If the tooth is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with gauze
- Avoid chewing on that side of the mouth
- Save any broken pieces and bring them to the appointment if possible
Then, contact us immediately to book an emergency dental visit. You can use our online booking system 24/7.
Treatment options for chipped teeth
At Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery, we offer several solutions depending on how much of the tooth is chipped and whether there is any pain or risk of infection.
1. Composite Bonding
For small to medium chips, composite bonding is an excellent choice. It’s quick, pain-free, and can usually be done in one visit. We apply a tooth-coloured resin to reshape and restore the chipped area, so it blends in naturally.
2. Dental Fillings
If the chip has affected a part of the tooth that was previously filled or has decay, we may use a dental filling to repair the damage and restore function.
3. Dental Crowns
For larger chips or fractures that affect the tooth’s structure, a crown might be the best option. This protects the tooth and brings back full function and appearance.
4. Root Canal Treatment
If the chip is deep and the nerve is exposed, we may need to perform a root canal before restoring the tooth to prevent infection and save the tooth.
5. Tooth Extraction (Last Resort)
In rare cases where the tooth is too damaged to repair, extraction might be necessary. If so, we will guide you through replacement options like implants or bridges.
Why treat a chipped tooth quickly?
Leaving a chipped tooth untreated can lead to:
- Increased sensitivity
- Tooth decay
- Pain or infection
- Difficulty chewing
- Cosmetic concerns
Early treatment ensures you avoid these problems and often makes the solution simpler and more affordable.
How we can help at Winchester Avenue Dental Surgery
We provide prompt and personalised care for all types of dental emergencies, including chipped teeth. Our friendly, experienced team will assess the damage and recommend the best treatment option for you. We offer:
- Same-day emergency appointments
- Evening and weekend availability
- Pain-free treatment options
- Affordable finance plans
Use our emergency dentist service or book online 24/7.
Trusted information about chipped teeth
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In conclusion
If you’ve chipped a tooth or are worried about chipped teeth, don’t wait. Contact Winchester Avenue Dental Surgeryin Leicester for fast, friendly, expert care. We’re here to help you feel better and smile confidently again.
Frequently asked questions - chipped tooth
Can a chipped tooth heal on its own?
No, a chipped tooth will not heal by itself. You need to see a dentist to prevent complications and restore the tooth properly.
Is a chipped tooth an emergency?
It can be, especially if you’re in pain, the nerve is exposed, or it’s affecting how you eat. We recommend using our emergency dental service in Leicester for advice and treatment.
How much does it cost to fix a chipped tooth?
Costs vary depending on the treatment, from a simple filling to a crown. We’ll give you a clear estimate after an examination.
Can a chipped tooth be fixed in one appointment?
Yes, many chipped teeth can be treated on the same day with composite bonding or a filling.
Will my tooth look normal after treatment?
Absolutely. Treatments like composite bonding are designed to match your natural tooth perfectly.