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Solutions for a Chipped Tooth

Sep 26, 2025

A chipped tooth can happen to anyone. In fact, more than 80% of people over 40 have chipped a tooth at some point in their lives. Whether you bit down on something hard, had an accident, or noticed a crack while brushing, it’s normal to feel worried.

At Llanos Dental Group, we understand how stressful it can be to see part of your tooth break off. The good news? There are many safe and effective solutions to restore your smile, comfort, and confidence.

What causes chipped teeth?

Teeth are strong, but they’re not unbreakable. A chipped tooth can happen for several reasons:

  • Biting foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy
  • Sports injuries
  • Auto and other accidents
  • Teeth grinding (bruxism)
  • Old fillings or dental work that wear down
  • Natural wear and tear over time

Sometimes chips are small and only affect the tooth’s surface. Other times, a large portion of the tooth may break, exposing the inner layers and causing pain or sensitivity.

Why it’s essential to treat a chipped tooth

You shouldn’t ignore a chip, even if it’s small. Leaving it untreated can lead to even bigger problems, such as:

  • Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
  • Pain when biting or chewing
  • Increased risk of dental decay
  • Risk of infection if the inner tooth is exposed
  • Damage spreading to nearby teeth
  • Cosmetic concerns that affect your smile
  • Tooth fractures

Addressing the problem early prevents discomfort and protects your long-term oral health.

Treatment options for a chipped tooth

We offer several solutions depending on the size and severity of the chip. We’ll recommend the best treatment after examining your tooth, but here are some of the options:

Dental bonding

For minor chips, bonding is a simple and effective fix. We apply a tooth-colored resin to the chipped area and shape it to match the rest of your tooth. 

It’s quick, painless, and we can usually do it in a single visit. Bonding is ideal for front teeth, where appearance is essential.

Dental veneers

We might suggest veneers if the chip is larger or affects the look of your smile. Veneers are thin porcelain or composite shells that cover the front of the tooth. 

They look natural and provide extra strength, making them popular for cosmetic and functional repairs.

Dental crowns

You may need a crown if a tooth loses a significant portion of its structure. A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are especially useful for back teeth that handle heavy chewing.

Root canal therapy

If the chip is deep and the tooth’s nerve is exposed, you may need a root canal. In this procedure, we remove the damaged nerve tissue, clean the empty tooth, and seal it to prevent infection. We usually place a crown on it afterward to strengthen the tooth.

Dental implants

In rare cases where we can’t save the tooth, extraction may be necessary. A dental implant replaces the missing tooth with a durable, natural-looking replica. This restores both function and appearance.

What to do if you chip a tooth

If you chip a tooth, here are some steps you can take before your appointment with us:

  • Rinse your mouth gently with warm water
  • Save any broken pieces, if possible, and bring them with you
  • Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling if your lip or gum is injured
  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
  • Avoid chewing on the damaged side

Remember, these are only temporary measures. You should always get a dentist to evaluate a chipped tooth as soon as possible.

Preventing chipped teeth

While you can’t avoid all accidents, there are ways to lower your risk:

  • Don’t chew hard things like ice or pens
  • Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities
  • Talk to your dentist about a nightguard if you grind your teeth
  • Keep up with regular dental check-ups to spot early signs of wear
  • Maintain excellent oral hygiene to keep teeth strong and healthy

A chipped tooth doesn’t have to be a permanent problem. Whether you need a quick bonding procedure or a more advanced solution like a crown or veneer, we provide personalized care to repair the damage and restore your smile.

We believe dental care should be both effective and comfortable. With modern techniques and compassionate attention, we ensure you leave our office with a healthy smile you can feel good about.

If you’ve chipped a tooth, don’t wait. Contact Llanos Dental Group today by phone or online and let us help you find the best solution.