Chipped or Broken Tooth? Here’s What to Do

Don’t Panic! Chipped or Broken Tooth? Here’s Exactly What to Do

We’ve all been there, a slip, a crunch on something hard, or maybe a football gone wrong. Suddenly, you realise a bit of your tooth is missing.

If you’ve just chipped or broken a tooth, take a deep breath. It’s surprisingly common, and the good news is: modern cosmetic dentistry makes it easy to fix, often in just one visit.

If you’re in or around Leicester, Ratby, Groby, or Glenfield, here’s what you should do (and not do) when it happens, and where locals go to get it sorted quickly.

Step-by-Step: What to Do When You Chip or Break a Tooth

Rinse your mouth – Use warm water to gently clean the area.
Save any tooth fragments – If possible, keep the piece in milk or saline solution.
Stop any bleeding – Apply light pressure with gauze if needed.
Reduce sensitivity – Avoid very hot, cold, or sugary food until seen.
Call a dentist ASAP – Small chips can wait a day or two, but larger breaks should be treated quickly.

For urgent cases, contact EverySmile Dental’s emergency dentist service in Leicester.

We’re open for same-day and weekend appointments whenever possible.

What Causes a Chipped or Broken Tooth?

Chipped and cracked teeth are incredibly common in Leicester, we see them all the time at EverySmile.

Common causes include:

Accidents or sports injuries
Biting down on something hard (like popcorn kernels or boiled sweets)
Weakened enamel from grinding or decay
Large, old fillings that have loosened over time

Even a minor chip can affect how your smile looks and feels, which is why it’s best not to leave it untreated.

How Dentists Fix a Chipped Tooth

Depending on the damage, there are several quick, pain-free treatments that can restore your tooth:

Composite Bonding

A simple and affordable fix for small chips. Tooth-coloured resin is shaped and polished to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth — often completed in just one appointment.

Dental Veneers

For larger chips or front teeth with multiple imperfections, veneers can completely transform appearance while protecting the underlying tooth.

Learn about Veneers in Leicester

Dental Crowns

If a big portion of your tooth is missing, a custom crown will restore strength and function. Modern crowns look so natural most people can’t tell the difference.

Explore our Smile Makeover options in Leicester

Root Canal or Emergency Treatment

If your chip exposes the nerve or causes pain, your dentist might recommend a root canal to save the tooth before restoring it cosmetically.

Visit our Emergency Dentist Leicester page for immediate help.

Why Fixing a Chipped Tooth Matters

Even a small chip can lead to bigger issues if ignored:

Increased tooth sensitivity
Sharp edges that cut your tongue or cheek
Risk of further cracking or infection
Visible imperfections that affect confidence

At EverySmile Dental, we see chipped-tooth patients almost daily. Most repairs are fast, comfortable, and surprisingly affordable and you’ll leave the clinic smiling again.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Chipped Tooth in Leicester?

The cost depends on how severe the damage is and which treatment is best:

Treatment Type	Average Cost (Leicester)	Duration	Notes
Composite Bonding	£200 – £250 per tooth	1 visit	Most common for minor chips
Veneer (Porcelain)	From £700	2 visits	Ideal for visible front teeth
Dental Crown	From £600	2 visits	For larger fractures
Emergency Consultation	From £80	Same day	Fee redeemable against treatment