Chipped Tooth Repair for North Finchley Patients

Not all chipped teeth are emergencies, but they all require professional assessment. You should seek a same-day appointment if the chip is large, causing sharp pain, or if the tooth is very sensitive to temperature, as this may indicate nerve exposure. Minor chips without pain can typically be seen within a few days. While you wait for your appointment, you can rinse your mouth with warm salt water and apply dental wax from a pharmacy over any sharp edges to protect your tongue and cheek. Avoid chewing on the damaged tooth to prevent the chip from worsening.

Composite bonding is the most common fix for small to medium chips and is finished in one visit. First, we pick a resin shade that matches your tooth. Then the surface is lightly etched and a conditioning liquid helps the resin stick. The dentist applies the putty like resin and shapes it to restore the tooth. A special light hardens the material, after which it is shaped and polished for a natural finish. The process is usually painless and takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth, and for most cases no anaesthetic is needed.

A recent patient from North Finchley chipped their front tooth on a glass bottle. We used bonding to restore it in a single 45-minute appointment and they left with a fully repaired smile. In another case a molar had a large fracture from biting something hard. Because the damage was extensive, a porcelain crown was the more durable long-term solution to protect the tooth, which we made using our in-practice CAD/CAM technology.

There is no downtime after bonding. To help it last, avoid biting hard foods with the bonded tooth. Bonded resin can stain, so limit coffee, tea, and red wine, especially in the first 48 hours. Maintain good oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing. With proper care, bonding typically lasts 5 to 7 years. If you notice sharp edges, a loose feeling, or discoloration, call us during office hours for an assessment. For severe pain or trauma outside these hours, visit A&E or call 111.

Bonding works well for many chips, but other options depend on the damage. A porcelain veneer is a thin shell that covers the front of the tooth. It is more stain-resistant and durable than bonding but requires removing a small amount of enamel and usually needs two visits. For a large fracture that compromises the tooth, a dental crown may be the best solution. A crown covers the entire tooth to provide strength and protection. We will discuss the pros and cons during your consultation to find the right solution for you.

We price honestly with no hidden fees. The cost depends on the method. Bonding is the most affordable option, typically starting from around £250 to £400 per tooth in London. Veneers and crowns cost more due to materials and lab work. As a private practice we do not offer NHS treatment but we accept major private plans such as Denplan and Cigna. We will provide a detailed cost breakdown before any treatment.

To choose what's right for you, here are important questions to ask any provider whether it is us or another practice in North London. How long can I expect the repair to last? What are the pros and cons of bonding versus a veneer for my chip? Can you show before and after photos of similar repairs you have done? Will the colour match my existing teeth? What is the total cost including follow up appointments? What happens if the bonding chips or falls off?