Why Do Teeth Chip or Break?
Teeth are incredibly strong, but they’re not invincible. Everyday wear, injury, or hidden weaknesses can cause them to chip, crack, or fracture. Common causes include:
- Biting hard foods like ice, nuts, or boiled sweets
- Accidents or trauma, such as falls or sports injuries
- Grinding or clenching (bruxism), especially at night
- Tooth decay or large fillings that weaken the tooth’s structure
- Sudden temperature changes, like eating something cold after drinking something hot
- Age-related wear on enamel over time
Even minor damage can lead to sensitivity, pain, or infection if left untreated. That’s why it’s important to seek care—even if your chipped tooth isn’t currently bothering you.
Symptoms of a Chipped or Broken Tooth
Sometimes, the damage is obvious, for example a visible piece of the tooth has come off or you feel a sharp edge with your tongue. But not all cracks are visible. Signs you may have a chipped or broken tooth include:
- Pain when chewing or biting
- Sudden sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- A rough or sharp edge against your tongue or cheek
- Swelling or tenderness around the affected area
- Tooth discolouration
- A loose or wobbly tooth following trauma
If you notice any of these, book a dental appointment as soon as possible. Early treatment often means simpler, less invasive solutions and a much better outcome. We also offer same day appointments at our centres across Sussex between 9 to 5, Monday to Friday.
How We Treat Chipped or Broken Teeth
The right treatment depends on the extent, location, and cause of the damage. Our experienced dentists will assess the tooth carefully (often with X-rays) to determine the best solution.
Here are the most common treatments we offer:
1. Dental Bonding
Perfect for small chips or rough edges, bonding involves applying a tooth-coloured composite resin to rebuild and reshape the tooth. It’s a quick, painless procedure that can be done in a single visit—ideal for front teeth or minor cosmetic fixes.
2. Tooth-Coloured Fillings
When the chip affects more of the tooth’s structure, we may use a composite filling to restore function. This method provides strength and durability while blending in with your natural tooth colour.
3. Porcelain Veneers
For chips that affect the front surface of a visible tooth, veneers offer a long-lasting and aesthetic solution. These thin, custom-made shells are bonded to the front of your teeth, improving both shape and appearance.
4. Dental Crowns
If the break is more severe or compromises the strength of the tooth, a crown may be necessary. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover the entire tooth, restoring strength, function, and appearance. We typically recommend this if the tooth is fractured, has a large filling, or has undergone root canal treatment.
5. Root Canal Treatment
If the crack extends into the pulp (nerve) of the tooth and causes infection or pain, a root canal may be needed before restoring the tooth with a crown. This procedure removes infected tissue, relieves discomfort, and preserves the natural tooth structure.
What to Do After Chipping or Breaking a Tooth
While waiting for your appointment, here’s how to protect your tooth and reduce discomfort:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling
- Avoid chewing on the damaged side of your mouth
- Use sugar-free gum or dental wax to cover any sharp edges
- Save any broken tooth fragments, if possible, and bring them with you
- Take over-the-counter pain relief, if needed
Even small chips can worsen or become painful over time, so don’t delay professional care.
What If the Tooth Can’t Be Saved?
In cases of severe trauma or when the tooth is fractured below the gum line, extraction might be the only option. If that happens, we’ll guide you through tooth replacement options such as:
- Dental Implants – A permanent, natural-feeling solution
- Dental Bridges – A fixed restoration supported by adjacent teeth
- Partial Dentures – A removable, budget-friendly option
Our goal is always to preserve your natural teeth where possible and to offer lasting, aesthetic alternatives when that’s not an option.
Aftercare and Prevention
Once your tooth is repaired, it’s important to protect it. We recommend:
- Avoiding chewing on hard objects (like pens, ice, or fingernails)
- Wearing a mouthguard during sports or if you grind your teeth at night
- Keeping up with regular dental visits to monitor the repaired tooth
- Practising good oral hygiene to prevent decay and further damage
With the right care, your repaired tooth can stay strong and healthy for years to come.
Fast, Friendly Treatment When You Need It
A chipped or broken tooth doesn’t have to cause long-term problems. At our clinic, we offer same-day emergency appointments and a full range of restorative options to get you smiling again—with minimal stress and maximum comfort.
Call us today to book your visit and let us help you restore your tooth and your peace of mind.