A chipped crown can be worrying, especially when it affects your smile or causes discomfort. While dental crowns are strong, they can still crack, break, or chip due to pressure, accidents, or natural wear. The good news is that most chipped crowns can be repaired easily.

This guide explains what to do immediately, how dentists fix a chipped crown, and when you should seek urgent care.

For a deeper overview of all crown types, visit Other Related Article: Teeth Crowns: Types, Procedure, Costs & Best Options Explained.

What Is a Chipped Crown?

A chipped crown is damaged to the protective cap placed over a tooth. It can occur on porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or metal crowns. Chips may be small or large, and the treatment will depend on how serious the damage is.

Common Signs of a Chipped Crown

• Sharp edges
  
  
• Sudden pain when biting
  
  
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
  
  
• Visible crack or small break
  
  
• Food getting stuck near the crown
  
  

If you notice these signs, visit a dentist soon to prevent further problems.

What Causes a Chipped Crown?

Many factors can lead to a chipped crown. Knowing them helps you avoid damage in the future.

1. Biting Hard Foods

Crunching ice, nuts, bones, or hard candy can chip or crack a crown.

2. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Night-time grinding puts extra pressure on crowns, especially ceramic or porcelain ones.

3. Old or Worn Crowns

Crowns last around 10–15 years. Older ones weaken and chip more easily.

4. Accidents or Trauma

Sports injuries, falls, or sudden impacts can damage a crown.

5. Poor Fit or Weak Bonding

A crown that wasn’t fitted properly may chip earlier than expected.

What to Do Immediately After a Chipped Crown

A chipped crown is not always an emergency, but you should take quick steps to protect the tooth.

1. Inspect the Damage

Use a mirror to check the size of the chip. If a piece broke off, keep it—it may help your dentist repair the crown.

2. Rinse Your Mouth

Rinse with warm water to clean the area and remove loose debris.

3. Avoid Chewing on the Affected Side

Do not put pressure on the damaged crown until your dentist checks it.

Temporary Solutions

• Use dental wax to cover sharp edges.
  
  
• Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
  
  

Call Your Dentist

Even small chips require a dental visit. Early repair prevents bigger issues.

How Dentists Fix a Chipped Crown

Your dentist will examine the crown and choose the right treatment based on the damage.

1. Small Chip Repair

Minor chips can be smoothed and repaired with tooth-colored composite material.
Best for: small chips on porcelain or ceramic crowns.

2. Re-Bonding the Crown

If the chipped crown becomes loose, your dentist may clean it and re-cement it back into place.

3. Replacing the Crown

A full replacement may be needed when:

• The chip exposes metal
  
  
• The crown is broken or split
  
  
• There are cracks across the surface
  
  
• Decay is found under the crown
  
  

Modern replacements often use porcelain, zirconia, or transparent crowns for natural-looking results.

4. Night Guard for Grinding

If teeth grinding caused the chipped crown, a custom night guard can protect your new restoration.

Is a Chipped Crown a Dental Emergency?

A chipped crown becomes an emergency when:

Emergency Signs

• You feel sharp or deep pain
  
  
• The crown has completely fallen off
  
  
• You cannot chew comfortably
  
  
• The natural tooth underneath is exposed
  
  

In these situations, seek dental care immediately to avoid infection or more serious damage.

Preventing a Chipped Crown in the Future

You can reduce the risk of crown damage with simple habits.

Tips to Avoid Damage

• Avoid hard foods like ice or bones
  
  
• Wear a mouthguard while playing sports
  
  
• Use a night guard if you grind your teeth
  
  
• Do not use your teeth to open packages
  
  
• Maintain good brushing and flossing habits
  
  

When Should a Chipped Crown Be Replaced?

Your dentist may recommend replacing the crown if:

When Replacement Is Needed

• The chip affects your bite
  
  
• Pain develops under the crown
  
  
• There are deep cracks
  
  
• The crown has been repaired several times
  
  
• Decay is present around the tooth
  
  

Your dentist will suggest the best crown material based on your chewing strength and aesthetic goals.

FAQs About Chipped Crowns

1. Does a chipped crown hurt?

Small chips may not hurt, but large cracks or exposed teeth can cause sensitivity or pain.

2. Can a chipped crown be repaired?

Yes. Minor chips can be repaired, but bigger breaks may need a full replacement.

3. What should I avoid if I have a chipped crown?

Avoid chewing on that side, eating hard foods, and touching the area with your tongue.

4. How long does it take to fix a chipped crown?

Small repairs take 20–30 minutes. Replacement usually takes one or two visits.

5. Can I leave a chipped crown untreated?

No. Ignoring a chipped crown can lead to decay, pain, fractures, and further tooth damage.

Contact Weston Creek Dental Care

Dental clinic

📞 Phone: 02 5944 1495

✉️ Email: clinic@westoncreekdentalcare.com.au

🌐 Website:https://www.westoncreekdentalcare.com.au/contact-us