Chipped Tooth Repair in East Finchley for a Flawless Smile

You should seek treatment if the chip is noticeable and affects your confidence, or if the edge feels sharp and irritates your tongue or cheek. Also check if the tooth is sensitive to hot or cold, which indicates the damage is near the nerve. Many patients from East Finchley choose cosmetic bonding as a quick fix before an important event. A recent patient had a small front tooth chip and we repaired it in a 45 minute appointment, in time for a business presentation. Even a small chip can weaken the tooth and raise the risk of a larger fracture.

The typical fix for a small to moderate chip is composite bonding. First, we have a brief 15 to 20 minute consultation to assess the chip and choose a shade of resin to match your teeth. Then the tooth surface is prepared with a mild etching solution to help the resin bond. Next the resin is applied, shaped, and cured with a light. Finally the restored tooth is polished to blend with your smile. The procedure is painless and lasts about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. An anaesthetic is not usually needed. For larger chips, a crown may be a better option, which involves a separate visit sequence.

After your bonding, you return to normal activities. In the first 48 hours avoid staining foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, and red wine while the resin settles. To protect the repair avoid biting hard objects like ice, pen caps, or nails. With good oral hygiene the bonding lasts five to seven years or more. If you notice sharp edges or looseness contact us. For severe pain or signs of infection such as swelling or fever, call during office hours for a same-day assessment. Outside hours dial 111 or visit the nearest A and E.

Other options may suit the damage better. A porcelain veneer is a thin ceramic shell that covers the front surface of the tooth. Veneers resist stains and last longer than bonding but cost more and require two visits. For a large fracture, especially on a molar, a crown often provides the best strength and protection. A crown covers the whole tooth for durability. A patient from Muswell Hill recently needed a crown to restore function in a fractured back tooth. We will discuss all suitable options during your consultation.

To decide what suits you, ask key questions at any practice in North London. Inquire about how long the repair should last, whether bonding or a veneer is proposed. Ask how they ensure the colour matches your teeth. Understand the total cost and what is included. Ask what happens if the repair chips or fails and what maintenance is needed. Finally, ask about alternative treatments and why they are recommended for your case.

Repair costs depend on the method. Composite bonding is the most affordable option, typically 200 to 400 pounds per tooth at our private practice. The final price depends on the size and complexity of the chip. Porcelain veneers and crowns involve more work and cost more. We provide a clear breakdown of all costs after your initial assessment, with no hidden fees. This private practice does not offer NHS treatment, but we accept several private plans including Denplan, Max Bupa, and Cigna. Please tell us if you have coverage so we can assist with the paperwork.