Chipped Tooth

A chipped tooth is a tooth that has lost a small piece of enamel, and sometimes the dentin beneath it, usually from an injury or from biting on something hard. It is a type of crown fracture, and dentists describe it by depth: enamel only, enamel and dentin, or a fracture that exposes the pulp.

Why It Matters

Even a small chip can leave a sharp edge that irritates the tongue or lip, and it may be a sign of a larger crack or of heavy biting forces. A chip that reaches the dentin can make the tooth sensitive and lets bacteria get closer to the pulp. If the pulp is exposed — often seen as a pink or bleeding spot — prompt treatment gives the best chance of keeping the nerve healthy.

Clinical Details

• Causes: Falls, sports injuries, biting hard foods or objects, teeth grinding, and teeth weakened by decay or large old fillings.
• Assessment: The dentist checks the depth of the fracture, looks for hidden cracks and loosening, tests the pulp and may take an X-ray, especially after an injury.
• Smoothing: Very small chips in enamel can simply be polished smooth.
• Bonding: Most chips are repaired with tooth-coloured composite resin (dental bonding), usually in a single visit.
• Veneer or crown: Larger fractures, or chips on front teeth combined with other cosmetic concerns, may be restored with a veneer; a weakened tooth may need a crown.
• Pulp involvement: If the pulp is exposed, it may need pulp treatment or root canal treatment before the tooth is restored.

FAQ

How do you fix a chipped tooth?

It depends on the size: polishing for tiny chips, composite bonding for most chips, and a veneer or crown for larger fractures. If you find the broken piece, bring it to the appointment, as it can sometimes be bonded back.

Is a chipped tooth an emergency?

A small, painless chip can wait for a routine appointment. See a dentist promptly if the tooth is painful or sensitive, bleeds from the centre, feels loose, or was chipped in an injury. A tooth that has been completely knocked out is an emergency.

Can a chipped tooth get worse?

Yes. A chip can extend into a crack, and sharp edges can break further. Restoring it early and, if you grind your teeth, wearing a night guard helps protect it.