Whether it’s from accidentally biting down awkwardly on a fork or an injury while playing sports, a chipped tooth is always inconvenient and alarming. But fortunately, a small chip isn’t a problem that a quick trip to the dentist can’t fix.  

Teeth are very strong, but not unbreakable. Chips can occur for any number of reasons, most commonly from biting down on something hard, grinding or clenching teeth (known as bruxism), or from injury. Chips are different from more severe tooth damage like cracks or breaks in that they’re typically painless, as the damage is only done to a tooth's hard, protective enamel coating, which serves to shield the tooth’s sensitive inner pulp or dentin.

While not usually painful, having a chipped tooth is no fun and it’s important to not delay getting it checked out. Fortunately, any damage can often be repaired quickly and easily by your dentist, whether it’s by smoothing and polishing the chip, bonding or gluing the broken piece, or getting a filling or crown if necessary.  

Cracks and breaks, on the other hand, are more serious, coming with a risk of infection and are often painful – especially when chewing. More significant cracks can result in more intensive procedures like root canals, crowns, caps or even extraction. If you suspect your tooth may be cracked or broken, you should schedule an emergency appointment immediately.  

Both Dental Image Therapy Centres locations offer emergency and urgent dental appointments in the case of a chip, crack or break in your teeth. All you need to do to schedule an appointment is use the orange Book Online button and make a note of the problem. However, if it’s after hours and you are experiencing extreme discomfort or need immediate medical attention, don’t wait – go directly to your nearest hospital emergency room instead.

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