Chipped Tooth Repair in Bellaire, TX

• Rinse gently with warm water.
• If it’s bleeding, press clean gauze on the area until it stops.
• Hold a cold compress against your cheek to limit swelling.
• Save the broken piece in milk or water and bring it with you.
• Cover a sharp edge with sugar-free gum or dental wax to protect your mouth.
• Avoid chewing on that side, then call our Bellaire office.

Not always. A small, painless chip usually isn’t urgent, but it’s still worth checking soon because chips can grow or expose deeper layers of the tooth. See a dentist the same day if you have pain or temperature sensitivity, bleeding, a large missing piece, swelling, or a pink or red spot inside the tooth, which may indicate exposed nerve tissue. If the chip came with a blow to the face and you feel dizzy or notice other injuries, get medical care first.

The best option depends on the size and location of the chip:

• Smoothing: polishes a very small chip or rough edge.
• Bonding: tooth-colored resin is shaped and hardened onto the tooth, often in one visit.
• Veneer: a thin porcelain or composite shell covers the front of the tooth for larger chips.
• Crown: a cap that protects the entire tooth when a large portion is missing or weak.

We’ll examine the tooth, walk through your options, and match the repair to your natural tooth.

It depends on the type of repair and how you care for it. Bonding often lasts several years, while veneers and crowns usually last longer. You can extend the life of any repair by avoiding ice and hard candy, not opening packages with your teeth, and wearing a nightguard or mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports. Regular checkups help us catch wear early.

Cost depends on the repair type and the size of the chip. Smoothing or bonding generally costs less than a veneer or crown. Insurance often covers repairs that restore function or protect the tooth but may not cover purely cosmetic work. We’ll check your benefits and give you a clear estimate before treatment begins.