So, you’re enjoying a snack or maybe just chewing on ice, and suddenly you hear a crack. You run your tongue over your teeth and feel something sharp. That’s when it hits you you’ve chipped a tooth.
A chipped tooth can be annoying, uncomfortable, and sometimes even painful. But here’s the good news: there are safe and effective ways to fix it, no matter how big or small the chip is. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what causes a chipped tooth, what to do right after it happens, the different treatment options, and how much each one might cost. By the end, you’ll know exactly what steps to take to get your smile back.
What Causes a Chipped Tooth?
Common Everyday Causes
- Biting down on hard foods like nuts, ice, or hard candy
- Accidents while playing sports or other physical activities
- Teeth grinding while sleeping (bruxism)
- Sudden impact from a fall or a blow to the face
Underlying Dental Issues
- Sometimes, a tooth chips more easily because it’s already weakened.
- Worn-down enamel from acidic foods or drinks
- Untreated cavities
- Old dental fillings or restorations that have thinned over time
What To Do Immediately After Chipping a Tooth
Quick First Aid Steps at Home
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling if needed.
- Save the broken piece (if you can) and keep it in milk or saliva — sometimes it can be reattached.
- Avoid chewing on that side until you see a dentist.
When It’s a Dental Emergency
- Severe pain or sensitivity
- Bleeding from inside the tooth
- A sharp edge that’s cutting your tongue or cheek
- A chip that exposes the darker inner layer (dentin) or nerve
- If you notice these signs, don’t wait. Get dental help as soon as possible.
Chipped Tooth Repair Options
Dental Bonding
For small chips, bonding is one of the simplest solutions. Your dentist uses a tooth-colored resin to fill in the chipped area and shape it so it looks natural.
- Best for: Minor chips on front teeth
- Cost: ₹1,500 – ₹5,000
Dental Veneers
A thin shell of porcelain or composite material covers the front of the tooth, hiding chips and improving appearance.
- Best for: Visible front teeth with larger chips or cosmetic concerns
- Cost: ₹6,000 – ₹15,000 per tooth
Dental Crowns
A crown covers the whole tooth, protecting it from further damage.
- Best for: Large chips, weak teeth, or chips on back teeth
- Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹20,000 depending on material
Root Canal with Crown
If the chip reaches the nerve, a root canal removes the damaged nerve and prevents infection, followed by a crown to restore function.
- Best for: Severe chips with nerve exposure
- Cost: ₹8,000 – ₹25,000
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Chipped Tooth?
Factors That Affect Cost
- The treatment method needed
- Type of material used
- Dentist’s skill and location of the clinic
Average Cost in India (Especially Pune/Kharadi)
- Bonding: ₹1,500 – ₹5,000
- Veneers: ₹6,000 – ₹15,000 per tooth
- Crowns: ₹4,000 – ₹20,000
- Root canal + crown: ₹8,000 – ₹25,000
How to Prevent Future Chipped Teeth
- Wear a mouthguard during sports activities
- Avoid chewing on ice, pens, or very hard foods
- Get checked for teeth grinding and use a night guard if needed
- Brush and floss regularly to keep enamel strong
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can a chipped tooth heal on its own?
No. Teeth can’t regrow enamel, so you’ll need a dentist to repair the chip.
Q2: How long does chipped tooth repair last?
Bonding can last 3–7 years, veneers about 10–15 years, and crowns 10–20 years with proper care.
Q3: Is it painful to fix a chipped tooth?
Small repairs are usually painless. Larger repairs may need local anesthesia, but discomfort is minimal.
Q4: Can I leave a chipped tooth untreated?
It’s risky. A chip can grow larger, cause sensitivity, or lead to decay and infection over time.
Don’t Wait — Fix Your Chipped Tooth Today
A chipped tooth might seem minor, but fixing it early can save you from bigger dental problems and higher costs later.
If you’re in Pune, especially around Kharadi, book an appointment with Dr. Prithvi Bonde at Teeth Empire Dental Clinic, a trusted dentist in Kharadi. Your tooth will be restored to look and feel natural, so you can smile and eat without worry.
Call now to book your consultation and get your chipped tooth fixed before it gets worse.