Reviewed by Dr. Amir Davoody, board-certified orthodontist (ABO Diplomate).
Chipping or cracking a tooth is unsettling, but a little preparation makes it far less stressful. Here is how to recognize the problem and the treatment options available, from Dr. Amir Davoody at Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics. (If you wear braces and chip a tooth or damage a bracket, contact our office as well.)
How to know if you have a chipped or cracked tooth
A broken front tooth is easy to spot, but for teeth you cannot see, watch for:
- Sudden sensitivity to cold foods or drinks
- A tongue irritated by rubbing against a jagged edge
- Pain when biting or putting pressure on the tooth
- An irritated gumline around one tooth
- A rough or uneven edge you can feel with your tongue
If it happens, act quickly: call your dentist’s office to schedule a visit, and in the meantime use an over-the-counter pain reliever and stick to soft foods.
Treatment options
The right fix depends on the size and location of the damage. Your dentist may recommend:
- Reattachment - cementing the original piece back on, when possible.
- Reshaping - smoothing and polishing a small chip.
- Filling - filling a larger chip or crack when reattachment is not an option.
- Bonding - shaping tooth-colored composite resin to rebuild the tooth.
- Veneers - a thin shell over a front tooth for larger chips or cracks.
- Onlay - for molars that have lost more structure, often porcelain or gold.
- Crown or cap - covering the tooth when a larger portion breaks off.
- Root canal - if the damage reaches the pulp, usually finished with a crown.
- Extraction and implant - when the tooth is beyond repair.
- Tooth splint - bonding a cracked tooth to a healthy neighbor so the area can recover.
Frequently asked questions
Is a chipped tooth an emergency? Significant breaks, bleeding, or severe pain warrant prompt care. Smaller chips should still be seen soon to prevent further damage.
Who treats a chipped tooth? Your general dentist handles most restorations. If the injury involves your braces or a bracket, let our orthodontic office know too.
What do I do until my appointment? Use an over-the-counter pain reliever, eat soft foods, and avoid chewing on the damaged side.
Take action quickly
A chipped or cracked tooth is most manageable when addressed early. If it involves your orthodontic treatment, contact our office and we will help.
Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics
5311 Kirby Dr Ste 209, Houston, TX 77005
Phone: (713) 521-2727