A tooth can chip or break because of injury, biting on something hard, decay or an old large filling. The right treatment depends on how much of the tooth is affected and whether the nerve is involved.
Options may include smoothing, bonding, a filling, crown or root canal treatment, or extraction if the tooth cannot be restored. Prompt care helps protect the tooth and relieve any pain.
Benefits
- Protects the remaining tooth
- Relieves pain and sensitivity
- Restores appearance and function
- Options range from simple to advanced
- Prompt assessment prevents further damage
What to Expect
- Examination and X-ray
- Assessment of the extent of the break
- Pain relief and protection of the tooth
- Repair with a filling, bonding or crown
- Root canal treatment if the nerve is affected
- Follow-up review
Frequently Asked Questions
Rinse your mouth with warm water, keep any fragments, apply a cold compress if swollen, and contact the clinic promptly.
Often yes. It depends on the location and severity of the break.
Not always. Small chips may need only smoothing or bonding, while larger breaks often need a crown.