What Happens if You Chip a Tooth?

It’s surprisingly easy to chip a tooth, and it can happen in a number of ways, whether you’ve taken a tumble, bitten into something unexpectedly hard, or had an accident. While it might seem like just a minor inconvenience, a chipped tooth can sometimes lead to more serious dental issues if not treated promptly. 

In this guide, we’ll explain what happens if you chip a tooth, when it’s considered an emergency, and how we can help you restore your smile. A healthy smile is the best smile, so let us help you keep smiling with confidence. 

What Happens When You Chip a Tooth? 

When we speak about chipping a tooth, we’re referring to damage to the enamel; the hard, protective outer layer. In some cases, a chip can expose the dentine or even the nerve inside the tooth, which may require prompt professional care. 

A chipped tooth can happen in many different ways, and the effects can vary. Here are some common outcomes you might notice: 

• A sharp edge where the tooth has broken 
• Sensitivity to temperature, whether hot or cold 
• Discomfort or difficulty chewing 
• Bleeding, which can indicate more severe damage 

However, depending on the location and extent of the damage, you might not even realise you’ve chipped a tooth until you look in the mirror or feel it with your tongue. 

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Chipped Tooth 

There are several reasons why we, and many other dentists strongly recommend getting a chipped tooth assessed as soon as possible. If left untreated, it can lead to: 

• Further cracking or breaking, especially if the tooth is weakened 
• Infection, as bacteria can enter through the damaged area 
• Increased pain and sensitivity, particularly when eating or drinking 
• Possible nerve damage, which may result in the need for more complex treatment 

Early prevention and treatment help to keep your smile healthy and reduce the risk of complications or infection. 

What to Do if You Chip Your Tooth 

As soon as you realise you’ve chipped a tooth, we recommend taking these steps to keep yourself comfortable and help prevent further damage: 

• Rinse your mouth with warm water (be careful with the temperature, as you may feel more sensitivity) 
• If you are bleeding, apply gentle pressure with gauze to help control it 
• Cover any sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free chewing gum to protect your tongue and cheeks 
• If you are experiencing discomfort, take over-the-counter pain relief as directed 
• Stay calm, chipped teeth are common and treatable 
• Call your dentist to arrange an appointment as soon as possible. If the damage is severe, contact an emergency dentist straight away. 

How to Determine if It’s a Dental Emergency 

If you notice any of the following symptoms, please consider it an urgent situation and contact a dentist promptly: 

• Severe pain that doesn’t subside 
• A large portion of the tooth missing 
• An exposed nerve, causing intense sensitivity 
• Persistent bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying pressure 

At Perfect Smile Spa, we offer emergency appointments and are here to help if you need immediate care. 

We’re Here to Help 

Chipping a tooth can feel unsettling, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you need reassurance, professional advice, or urgent treatment, our friendly team at Perfect Smile Spa is here to support you every step of the way. 

If you’ve chipped a tooth, or think you might have please don’t wait for it to worsen. Early assessment and treatment can save you discomfort and prevent more serious issues down the line. 

To book an appointment or speak to our caring team, simply get in touch today  we’re here to help you smile with confidence again.