Is a Chipped Tooth Serious?

A chipped tooth is not always a dental emergency, but it is still something you should have checked. A tiny chip may only affect the outer layer of the tooth and cause no pain at all. A larger chip can expose the inside of the tooth, make it sensitive, or leave it more likely to crack further. How serious it is depends on where the chip is and how much tooth structure was lost.

How do I know if a chipped tooth is minor?

A small chip that does not hurt and does not feel sensitive is usually less urgent. You may just notice a rough edge with your tongue or see that a tiny piece is missing. Even then, it is a good idea to mention it to your dentist. Small chips can sometimes be smoothed or repaired with bonding before they turn into a bigger problem.

What if the chipped tooth hurts?

Pain is a sign that the chip may be deeper. If the inside of the tooth has been exposed, you may notice pain when you bite down or sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods. A painful chip should be looked at sooner rather than later, especially if the pain is sharp, constant, or getting worse.

Can a chipped tooth get worse?

Yes. Once part of a tooth has broken away, the remaining tooth may be weaker. Continued chewing, grinding, or biting on something hard can make the chip larger or cause a crack to spread. A small problem that could have been fixed with bonding or a filling may eventually need a crown if more of the tooth breaks.

What if the tooth has a sharp edge?

A sharp edge can irritate your tongue, cheek, or lip, even if the tooth itself does not hurt. Try to avoid chewing on that side until you can get in to see your dentist. Dental wax can sometimes be used temporarily to cover a rough edge, but it is not a permanent fix.

Can a chipped tooth become infected?

It can if the chip goes deep enough. When a break reaches the inner part of the tooth, bacteria may be able to get inside. That can lead to inflammation or infection and may eventually require a root canal. Signs to watch for include worsening pain, swelling, a bad taste, or a bump on the gum near the tooth.

What happens if I ignore a chipped tooth?

Sometimes nothing happens right away, especially with a very small chip. But it is hard to know how deep the damage goes just by looking at it. Ignoring a chip can allow more of the tooth to break or make it harder to repair later. That is why even a painless chip is worth having checked.

How is a chipped tooth fixed?

That depends on the size and location of the chip. A small chip may only need smoothing or tooth-colored bonding. A larger break may need a filling or crown. If the nerve inside the tooth has been affected, a root canal may be needed before the tooth is restored.

When should I call my dentist?

Call sooner if the tooth is painful, very sensitive, bleeding, loose, or badly broken. If the chip is small and painless, you may not need an emergency appointment, but you should still have it looked at. If you chipped a tooth recently, call our office to schedule a visit. We can check the damage and let you know what kind of repair, if any, is needed.

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