Does a Chipped Tooth Require Emergency Dental Care?

It’s easy to panic when you chip a tooth, whether it happened during a meal, a game, or just a slip and fall. But not every chipped tooth means an immediate emergency. At Candelas Dentistry in Arvada, we want you to have peace of mind knowing when to act fast and when you can afford to wait. 

Dr. Kim and Dr. Hinze are here to help you understand the difference so you can get the right care at the right time, with comfort and clarity every step of the way. Wondering whether you should call us for an emergency visit, or when treatment can wait a few days? Find out below.

When a Chipped Tooth Is a Dental Emergency

Some chips are minor and mostly cosmetic, but others can signal a more serious problem. In general, consider it an emergency if the chipped tooth is:

• Causing significant pain or throbbing
• Exposing the inner tooth (dentin or pulp)
• Bleeding or accompanied by gum damage
• A result of trauma that affected multiple teeth
• Sharp enough to cut your tongue or cheeks

These signs could mean your tooth is vulnerable to infection or further breakage. If you're experiencing any of the above symptoms, it's important to contact a trusted dentist right away. The team at Candelas Dentistry offers same-day emergency services to help fix your tooth and get you back to your routine.

When It Can Wait a Day or Two

Not all chips pose an urgent threat. If the damage is minor and you're not in pain, you may not need to rush to the dentist the same day. You can likely wait for a regular appointment if:

• The chip is small and doesn’t expose inner tooth layers
• You’re experiencing no pain or sensitivity
• There’s no sharp edge or visible crack extending into the root

Still, it’s important to schedule an appointment within a few days. Even a small chip can lead to future issues if ignored, like a higher risk of tooth decay or future tooth breakage. Book a visit with Candelas Dentistry, and Dr. Kim and Dr. Hinze can help you learn more about your options for treatment. These may include simply smoothing out the chip, applying a bonding material, or even placing a crown.

Can You Do Anything at Home Until You See the Dentist?

If your chipped tooth isn’t an emergency but you can’t fit a visit into your schedule  immediately, there are a few things you can do to protect your mouth and reduce discomfort:

• Rinse with warm salt water to keep bacteria out
• Apply dental wax to the tooth to cover up sharp edges
• Stick to eating soft foods and avoid chewing on the chipped side whenever possible
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers if there’s minor discomfort

These steps are temporary and shouldn’t replace professional care. If you’re unsure how serious your situation is, don’t hesitate to call our caring team at (720) 779-0088. We’ll gladly guide you through next steps and get you scheduled as quickly as possible.

Treatment Options for Chipped Teeth

Depending on the severity of the chip, your dentist may recommend one of the following treatments to restore function and aesthetics:

• Dental Bonding: Great for minor chips; uses tooth-colored resin for a seamless look
• Dental Crowns: Recommended for larger breaks to protect and strengthen the tooth
• Veneers: Ideal for front teeth with visible chips, especially for cosmetic improvement
• Root Canal: Needed if the pulp has been exposed to oral bacteria or seriously damaged

Thanks to modern technology and our gentle approach, these treatments can be completed comfortably and efficiently right in our office. Led by Dr. Kim and Dr. Hinze, our award-winning dental team takes time to explain your options and uses advanced tools to ensure precision and lasting results.

Call a Trusted Emergency Dentist in Arvada

If you’ve chipped a tooth and aren’t sure what to do next, Candelas Dentistry is here for you. Whether it’s a mild cosmetic concern or something more serious, Dr. Kim and Dr. Hinze offer friendly, expert guidance with a strong focus on comfort and trust. We proudly serve our neighbors in Arvada, Broomfield, and Westminster, with same-day emergency appointments available. Call us today at (720) 779-0088 to schedule your visit, and we’ll help you smile confidently again in no time.