Common Causes of a Chipped Tooth

A chipped or broken tooth can occur for many reasons, and understanding what caused it can help you prevent future tooth damage.

Most common causes include:

• Biting hard foods like ice, hard candy, or unpopped popcorn kernels
• Teeth grinding (bruxism) that wears down tooth enamel
• Accidents or sports injuries that impact the mouth or jaw
• Old fillings or crowns that weaken over time
• Tooth decay that compromises structural strength

Even a small chip can lead to further injury or infection if ignored—so it’s always best to see a dentist as soon as possible.

Why a Chipped Tooth Needs Immediate Care

You might be tempted to shrug off a tiny chip, especially if it doesn’t hurt—but leaving a chipped tooth untreated can cause major problems later.

Potential risks include:

• Increased tooth sensitivity due to exposed dentin or nerves
• Higher risk of tooth decay and infection
• Sharp edges irritating your tongue or cheek
• Structural weakness leading to cracks or further damage

Even minor chips can affect the balance of your bite, wearing down surrounding teeth and creating discomfort when chewing.

At Noleen Dental, Dr. Nguyen examines the extent of the damage and recommends the most suitable treatment options to restore both function and aesthetics.

What to Do Right After Chipping a Tooth

1. Rinse Your Mouth

Gently rinse with warm water to remove debris and keep the area clean. This helps prevent infection and makes it easier to see the extent of the damage.

2. Stop Any Bleeding

If your gums or lip are bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze until it stops.

3. Save Any Tooth Fragments

If a piece of your tooth broke off, place it in a small container of milk or saliva and bring it to your appointment. In some cases, it can be re-bonded to your tooth.

4. Protect Sharp Edges

If you feel a jagged edge, cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum to prevent cuts to your tongue or cheek.

5. Apply a Cold Compress

If your face is swollen or sore, use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort.

6. Eat Soft Foods Only

Stick to soft foods until you can see a dentist. Avoid hard candy, nuts, or crunchy snacks that can make the chip worse.

How Dentists Fix a Chipped Tooth

Dr. Nguyen will start by taking X-rays to assess the extent of the chip and check for root damage or hidden cracks. Then, she’ll determine which treatment option best suits your tooth’s condition.

1. Dental Bonding (Composite Resin Repair)

For minor chips, dental bonding is one of the quickest and most affordable fixes. Using a tooth-colored composite resin, Dr. Nguyen reshapes the tooth and restores its smooth, natural appearance.

Benefits of bonding:

• Fast (usually done in one visit)
• Painless
• Cost-effective
• Ideal for front teeth and small chips

The procedure involves applying a conditioning liquid, layering the composite resin, and using a special curing light to harden it. The result? A seamless repair that blends perfectly with your natural teeth.

2. Dental Veneers

For larger chips or aesthetic concerns, dental veneers may be the best option. These thin porcelain shells completely cover the front surface of your tooth, restoring both function and beauty.

Veneers are ideal for:

• Front teeth with visible chips
• Discoloration or uneven surfaces
• Patients seeking a long-term cosmetic dentistry solution

Dr. Nguyen custom-designs veneers to match your smile perfectly, ensuring a strong, natural-looking finish.

3. Dental Crowns

If your tooth is severely chipped or weakened, a dental crown can protect it from further damage. Crowns cover the entire chewing surface of the tooth, restoring its shape and strength.

Crowns are recommended for:

• Larger breaks exposing tooth enamel or blood vessels
• Teeth weakened by decay or large fillings
• Molars or back teeth that endure heavy chewing

A well-placed crown can last for many years with proper care, preventing further cracking or discomfort.

4. Root Canal Therapy

In extreme cases where the tooth pulp or nerve is exposed, root canal therapy may be needed. This procedure removes infected or damaged tissue to eliminate pain and protect the tooth root.

Once treated, Dr. Nguyen will place a crown or filling to restore your tooth’s structure and appearance.

5. Dental Implants (for Non-Restorable Teeth)

If a chipped or broken tooth cannot be saved, a dental implant may be the best replacement option. This permanent solution restores your smile and helps maintain jaw health by preventing bone loss.

An implant replaces both the root and the visible part of the tooth, functioning and looking just like your natural teeth.

How to Prevent Chipped Teeth

While some accidents are unavoidable, you can significantly reduce your risk with a few preventive habits.

Tips to protect your teeth:

• Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities.
• Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or pens.
• Address teeth grinding with a custom nightguard.
• Maintain regular dental checkups to catch early signs of enamel wear.
• Practice good oral hygiene to prevent gum disease and decay.

Taking preventive steps today can save you from costly and painful dental emergencies later.

How to Care for a Repaired Tooth

Once your chipped tooth is fixed, proper care ensures it lasts for years. Dr. Nguyen recommends:

• Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Using non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching repairs.
• Flossing gently to prevent gum irritation.
• Scheduling professional cleanings every six months.
• Avoiding biting hard foods or using your teeth to open packages.

With these habits, your repaired tooth will remain strong and healthy for the long term.

Frequently Asked Questions

When to Call Noleen Dental

If you experience pain, tooth sensitivity, or feel a rough edge after chipping a tooth, don’t wait. Even small chips can worsen quickly, exposing the tooth’s inner layers and leading to infection or cavities.

Dr. Noleen Nguyen offers compassionate care and same-day emergency appointments for patients throughout Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, and Costa Mesa. She’ll assess your damaged tooth, relieve discomfort, and restore your smile with precision and care.

Call our Huntington dental practice at (714) 375-0044 now to schedule your appointment or get help with a chipped or broken tooth.

To speak to a member of our staff about your dental emergency, contact Noleen Dental in Huntington Beach at