Introduction: Chipped Tooth? Here’s Exactly What To Do
A chipped tooth can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and sometimes alarming — but the good news is that modern dentistry offers fast, effective and natural-looking solutions for almost every type of tooth damage. Whether a small edge has snapped off while eating, a front tooth has chipped during a fall, or a molar has cracked from years of grinding, dental treatment today is more advanced, more cosmetic, and more durable than ever.
However, the right treatment depends on:
- The location of the chip.
- The size and severity.
- Whether the tooth’s nerve is affected.
- Your long-term goals (cosmetic vs. structural)
- Whether decay or infection is present
This comprehensive guide explains all major chipped tooth treatment options, how much they cost in London, common symptoms and when to see a dentist urgently. It also includes insurance coverage levels, preventative advice and why Whites Dental in Waterloo and Marble Arch (W2) is one of the most trusted central London clinics for cracked, broken and chipped tooth repair.
Key Takeaway
A chipped tooth is easy to repair when treated quickly. From composite bonding to veneers, crowns, onlays, and root canal treatment, modern solutions restore both appearance and strength. Prices typically range from £220 to £1,200+, depending on the treatment type, with immediate care preventing infection, increased sensitivity and further cracking. Whites Dental provides same-day and next-day chipped tooth repair at both London Waterloo and Marble Arch clinics.
💡 Visit Whites Dental in London for a same day chipped tooth repair appointment.
What Causes A Chipped Tooth?
Teeth chip for many reasons. Some causes are sudden, while others develop over months or years.
Common causes include:
- Biting hard foods such as ice, nuts, hard sweets, or un popped popcorn kernels
- Accidents or trauma from falls, sports injuries, or impact to the face.
- Teeth grinding (bruxism) that weakens enamel until it fractures.
- Decay that reduces structural strength and makes the tooth fragile.
- Acid erosion from diet or reflux that softens enamel
- Old fillings that have weakened the tooth over time
- Temperature changes causing micro-fractures
- Naturally weak enamel due to genetics
💡 Some people are more prone to chips simply because their enamel is thinner or more brittle.
How Serious Is A Chipped Tooth?
Chips range from minor cosmetic ones to severe fractures requiring urgent treatment. The seriousness depends on size, depth, and symptoms.
Minor Chips (Superficial)
- Only enamel affected
- No pain
- Mostly cosmetic
- Quick fix with bonding
Moderate Chips
- A noticeable portion missing
- Sensitivity to cold or sweet foods
- Sharp edges
- Often require veneers, onlays, or fillings
Severe Fractures
- Visible crack line
- Nerve exposure
- Pain when biting or chewing
- May require a crown or root canal
Vertical Root Fractures
- Very serious
- Often painful
- Usually need extraction
💡 The earlier the treatment, the easier and cheaper the repair.
Common Symptoms Of A Chipped Tooth
A chipped tooth does not always hurt initially — but symptoms can develop over hours or days.
Common signs include:
1. Sharp Pain When Biting
If the fracture reaches the dentine or nerve, biting pressure triggers discomfort.
2. Temperature Sensitivity
Chipped enamel exposes more porous tooth layers.
3. Rough Or Sharp Edges
This can cut the tongue, lip, or cheek.
4. Visible Crack Or Missing Piece
Front teeth show this easily; molars may require imaging.
5. Food Getting Stuck
A newly formed recess or gap can trap food debris.
6. Discolouration
A dark line or patch may form if the internal structure is affected.
Chipped Tooth Treatment Options Explained
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution — the best option depends on the severity of the break and the long-term prognosis of the tooth.
Below are the main options:
1. Composite Bonding (Cosmetic Bonding)
Best for: Small to medium chips, cosmetic improvements
Durability: 3–7 years
Treatment time: 20–40 minutes
Composite bonding uses tooth-coloured resin that blends perfectly with your natural tooth.
Benefits:
- Quick and painless
- No drilling required
- Highly cosmetic.
- Affordable.
Ideal when:
- The chip is small
- No structural damage
- Patient wants a fast, budget-friendly fix
2. Porcelain Veneer
Best for: Front teeth with moderate chips
Durability: 10–15+ years
Cosmetics: Excellent
A thin porcelain shell covers the front of the tooth, masking chips, cracks, and discolouration.
Benefits:
- Extremely natural appearance
- Resistant to staining
- Strong and long-lasting.
Not ideal if:
- The tooth is weakened at the back
- Large portion is missing (crown is better)
3. Dental Crown (Cap)
Best for: Large fractures or weakened teeth
Durability: 10–15+ years
A crown covers the entire tooth, restoring full functionality and strength.
Crowns are recommended when:
- More than 20% of the tooth is missing
- The tooth cracks vertically
- A large filling is already present
Benefits:
- Most protective option
- Excellent for molars
- Restores bite force
4. Inlay Or Onlay
Best for: Chips on molars too large for bonding but too small for a full crown
Durability: 10–12 years
Benefits:
- Stronger than fillings
- More conservative than crowns
- Perfect for chewing surfaces
5. Root Canal + Crown
If a chip exposes the nerve or causes infection, a root canal may be necessary.
Indications:
- Pain
- Heat sensitivity
- Swelling
- Deep crack.
Outcome:
💡 A crown is placed afterward to protect the tooth long-term.
6. Bonding The Original Fragment
If you still have the broken piece, in some cases it can be reattached — but only if:
- The fragment is intact.
- The break occurred recently
- The surface is clean
💡 This produces excellent cosmetic results.
7. Temporary Repair (Emergency Filling)
Useful before a holiday or important event to prevent pain and further damage.
Cost Of Chipped Tooth Repair
Prices vary depending on the treatment required.
Typical London Costs:
- Composite Bonding: £220–£250
- Veneers: £450–£950
- Crowns: £750–£1,200+
- Inlays/Onlays: £550–£900
- Root Canal + Crown: £850–£1,450+
- Emergency Appointment: £65–£95
💡 Chipped teeth treated early are significantly cheaper than those left untreated.
Chipped Tooth Repair At Whites Dental
We offer fast, aesthetic and long-lasting chipped tooth repair at two central London clinics:
Whites Dental Waterloo
172 Blackfriars Rd, London SE1 8ER
📞 020 8616 0590
Whites Dental Marble Arch (W2)
52B Kendal St, St George’s Fields, London W2 2BP
📞 020 3576 2325
Insurance Coverage For Chipped Tooth Repair In The UK
Many chipped tooth treatments fall under restorative or accidental damage cover. Most common UK dental insurances include:
Bupa Dental Insurance
- Covers 50–75% of restorative treatments
- Accidental damage often included
- Crowns typically partially covered
Denplan (Simplyhealth)
- Coverage varies by plan tier
- Accident cover usually up to £10,000
- Optional restorative add-ons
WPA Dental Insurance
- Covers up to 75% of restorative costs
- Strong accident/trauma benefits
AXA PPP & Allianz
- Crowns and bonding sometimes covered under accident policies
- Emergency appointments often reimbursed
Important:
- Cosmetic veneers may not be fully covered
- Composite bonding often partially reimbursable
- Whitening is never covered
💡 Whites Dental provides detailed receipts for reimbursement.
When You Should See A Dentist Immediately
A chipped tooth requires urgent care if you experience:
- Severe pain
- Nerve exposure.
- Bleeding from the tooth.
- A large piece broken off.
- Visible crack extending to the gum
- Swelling or infection
💡 Ignoring symptoms may lead to root canal treatment or tooth loss.
How To Prevent A Chipped Tooth From Happening Again
Daily Habits
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Avoid chewing hard foods.
- Drink acidic beverages through a straw
- Brush twice daily
- Floss once daily
Lifestyle Habits
- Wear a mouthguard during sports
- Avoid biting nails or chewing pens
- Use a nightguard if you grind teeth
Regular Dental Checkups
Early detection prevents fractures caused by decay, wear, and enamel thinning.
Why Choose Whites Dental For Chipped Tooth Repair In London?
1. Experienced Cosmetic and Emergency Dentists
We treat hundreds of chipped teeth every year using the latest materials and techniques.
2. Two Central London Locations
Ideal for commuters, professionals, and local residents.
3. Same-Day Appointments Available
Especially useful for front-tooth chips affecting appearance.
4. High-Quality Porcelain and Composite Materials
Shade-matched for the most natural result.
5. Transparent Pricing & Clear Treatment Plans
No hidden fees and no surprises.
FAQs About Chipped Tooth Repair
1. Will my chipped tooth get worse if I ignore it?
Yes — even small chips can lead to cracks, decay, or infection.
2. Is a chipped tooth painful?
Not always, but pain often develops if the dentine or nerve becomes exposed.
3. Can a chipped tooth heal naturally?
No — enamel cannot regrow.
4. What’s the quickest way to repair a chipped tooth?
Composite bonding, usually done in under 40 minutes.
5. Can I eat normally after treatment?
Bonding requires care for 24 hours; crowns and veneers allow normal eating afterward.
6. Will the repair match my natural tooth?
Yes — shade matching makes repairs almost invisible.
7. Can insurance cover my chipped tooth repair?
Often yes, especially if accidental.
8. What if the chip is large?
Crowns or onlays are usually recommended.
9. Can children chip teeth?
Yes — bonding is often used for younger patients.
10. How long will the repair last?
3–7 years for bonding; 10–15+ years for veneers and crowns.