Chipped Tooth
A chipped tooth means a small piece has broken off a tooth, often from biting something hard, a minor fall, or a sports knock. Unlike a deeper fracture, a chip usually affects only the outer edge of the tooth, and it may cause little or no pain. The tooth may feel rough, look slightly shorter, or catch the tongue, and the chip is often most noticeable on a front tooth.
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What to know about Chipped Tooth
A dentist will check whether the chip is only on the surface or whether it reaches deeper into the tooth. Small chips can often be smoothed or repaired with bonding, while a larger chip may need a different repair. Even a painless chip deserves a check, because a rough edge can irritate the mouth and the tooth can be more vulnerable to further damage.
Signs of Chipped Tooth
- A small piece missing from the edge of a tooth
- A rough edge that catches the tongue or cheek
- A tooth that looks slightly shorter or uneven
- Little or no pain, unless the chip is larger
What to do right away for Chipped Tooth
- Rinse gently and check for any other damage
- Keep any broken piece in a clean container if you can find it
- Avoid biting hard foods on that tooth
- Cover a sharp edge with dental wax if it is cutting your mouth, then call for help
How a dentist may help with Chipped Tooth
- Examine the tooth and check how deep the chip goes
- Smooth a rough edge when that is enough
- Repair the chip with bonding or another suitable treatment
- Check the bite so the repaired tooth meets comfortably
When to seek urgent care for Chipped Tooth
Seek urgent care if the tooth becomes very painful, swells, bleeds, or a large piece has broken away.
This page gives general information about Chipped Tooth and is not medical advice. A dentist who examines you can give advice for your situation.
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Helpful guides
Chipped Tooth is one of the topics on the Emergency Dental Services list. For general enquiries, use Contact Emergency Dentist, or call for urgent help.
Frequently asked questions about Chipped Tooth
Is a chipped tooth different from a fractured tooth?
Yes. A chip is usually a small piece from the edge. A fracture is a crack or break that can go deeper into the tooth and needs a different assessment.
Can a small chip be left alone?
A dentist should check it first. Even a small chip can have a rough edge or hide deeper damage.
Should I keep the chipped piece?
Yes, if you can find it safely. Bring it to the dental visit in a clean container.