A chipped tooth crown can be both alarming and painful—but it’s not uncommon, and more importantly, it’s treatable. Whether it happens from biting into something hard, an old dental crown giving way, or trauma to the mouth, a chipped dental crown is a situation that calls for quick, informed action. The key is understanding why it happens, what to do next, and how to prevent further issues.
This article provides a comprehensive, updated, and easy-to-understand guide to chipped tooth crowns—whether porcelain, metal, ceramic, or composite—explaining causes, immediate responses, professional solutions, and how to protect your oral health in the long run. If you’ve ever wondered what to do if your crown chips, this guide has you covered.
What Is a Chipped Tooth Crown?
A chipped tooth crown refers to a fracture, crack, or break in an artificial cap (crown) that is placed over a natural tooth. Crowns are commonly used in dentistry to:
- Restore broken or worn teeth
- Protect weak teeth after a root canal
- Improve the appearance of discolored or misshaped teeth
- Anchor dental bridges
When a crown chips, the integrity of the restoration is compromised. Depending on the severity, a chipped crown might simply need smoothing, partial repair, or complete replacement.
Common Types of Dental Crowns and Their Susceptibility to Chipping
Understanding what kind of crown you have is essential in assessing the risks and appropriate treatment options.
| Type of Crown | Material Used | Appearance | Durability | Chipping Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) | Porcelain over metal | Tooth-colored exterior | Moderate to High | Moderate |
| All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain | Ceramic, Zirconia | Very natural-looking | Moderate | High |
| All-Metal | Gold or metal alloys | Metallic finish | Very durable | Low |
| Resin | Composite resin | Natural color | Least durable | Very High |
| E-max or Zirconia | High-grade ceramic | Superior aesthetics | High durability | Low to Moderate |
Causes of Chipped Tooth Crowns
Several causes can lead to crown damage, most of which are preventable. Recognizing the cause is the first step to preventing recurrence.
- Trauma or Injury
- A fall, blow to the face, or sports injury can crack or chip a crown.
- Biting Hard Substances
- Ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candies are among the common culprits.
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
- Grinding or clenching, especially during sleep, wears down crown material over time.
- Natural Wear and Tear
- Crowns aren’t permanent; over time, even strong materials degrade.
- Poor Bonding
- Inadequate cementation during crown placement can weaken its adhesion and structural stability.
- Thermal Stress
- Extreme temperature changes (e.g., eating hot soup and then drinking cold water) can expand and contract crown material, leading to cracking.
- Underlying Tooth Decay
- If the tooth beneath the crown decays, it can destabilize the crown, making it more vulnerable to chipping.
Symptoms That May Accompany a Chipped Crown
Sometimes a chip is visually obvious. Other times, it may be subtle but still harmful. Be aware of:
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain while biting or chewing
- A jagged edge you can feel with your tongue
- Gum irritation or swelling near the crown
- Bad taste or odor, possibly indicating infection
What To Do Immediately If Your Crown Chips
If your crown chips, the first step is to stay calm and take the following precautions:
- Remove Loose Pieces
- If the chip is large or loose, remove it carefully to avoid swallowing or inhaling it.
- Rinse and Store
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to avoid infection. Store any broken piece in a clean container if it may be useful for your dentist.
- Avoid Chewing on That Side
- Reduce further damage or pain by chewing on the unaffected side.
- Use Dental Wax or Temporary Filling
- Available at most pharmacies, dental wax can cover sharp edges and prevent tongue irritation.
- Schedule a Dental Appointment Immediately
- Even if it doesn’t hurt, don’t wait. Early repair avoids more serious problems.
Treatment Options for a Chipped Tooth Crown
The ideal treatment depends on the extent of the damage and the type of crown involved.
Minor Chip or Hairline Crack
If it’s superficial and not causing pain:
- Polishing or Smoothing: Dentist reshapes the crown’s rough edge.
- Dental Bonding: Composite resin fills the chip to restore function and appearance.
Moderate Chip
If a portion has broken off but the underlying tooth is unaffected:
- Resin Patching: For ceramic or porcelain crowns, resin can temporarily patch the chip.
- Crown Resurfacing: Sometimes, only the outer layer needs replacement.
Major Fracture or Loss of Function
If the crown is cracked through or affects your bite:
- Crown Replacement: The most common solution; the old crown is removed, and a new one is fabricated.
- Core Buildup or Post Placement: If the underlying tooth is damaged, a buildup or post is done before crown replacement.
Crown Fell Off with Tooth Damage
- Root Canal Therapy (if needed)
- Extraction (in severe decay)
- Implant Placement (if the tooth is beyond saving)
How Dentists Diagnose and Assess Chipped Crowns
- Visual Examination
- X-rays to assess the health of the tooth underneath
- Bite Test to ensure alignment hasn’t been compromised
- Thermal and Pressure Tests if sensitivity or nerve issues are suspected
Crown Materials and Their Repairability
| Crown Material | Repairability | Common Repair Approach | Long-Term Durability Post-Repair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porcelain-Fused Metal | Moderate | Composite bonding | Moderate |
| All-Porcelain | Low | May require full replacement | Low to Moderate |
| Metal | High (but rarely chips) | Buffing or reshaping | High |
| Resin | High but temporary | Composite patching | Low |
| Zirconia | Moderate | Surface bonding | High |
Can a Chipped Crown Be Left Untreated?
Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Even small chips can:
- Compromise bite alignment
- Lead to gum irritation or infections
- Allow bacteria to enter and damage the underlying tooth
- Result in worsening cracks or complete crown failure
Delaying treatment could turn a minor fix into a major dental procedure.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair or Replace a Chipped Crown?
| Type of Treatment | Average Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minor Resurfacing | $100 – $250 | Quick in-office procedure |
| Resin Bonding | $150 – $400 | Temporary or cosmetic |
| Full Replacement | $800 – $2,500 | Depends on material |
| Root Canal + Crown | $1,500 – $3,000 | If nerve damage is involved |
| Dental Implant | $3,000 – $5,000 | For irreparably damaged tooth |
Insurance may partially cover crown repair or replacement if medically necessary.
Preventing Future Crown Chipping
- Wear a Night Guard
- Especially if you grind your teeth
- Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
- Ice, nuts, and caramel can strain your crown
- Regular Dental Checkups
- Small cracks can be caught early
- Good Oral Hygiene
- Brushing and flossing around the crown prevent decay
- Mindful Habits
- Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bottles
Chipped Crown vs. Chipped Natural Tooth
It’s essential to differentiate the two. Sometimes, the chipped edge might belong to your natural tooth underneath, not the crown. Dentists use X-rays and probing to identify the true source.
| Feature | Chipped Crown | Chipped Natural Tooth |
|---|---|---|
| Material Appearance | Ceramic or metal look | Translucent natural enamel |
| Pain Sensitivity | Often minimal | Sharp pain or sensitivity |
| Repair Method | Crown repair/replace | Filling, bonding, or crown |
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FAQs
Can I eat with a chipped crown?
Avoid eating until your dentist examines the chip. Chewing can worsen the damage or cause pain.
Is it a dental emergency?
Not always, but any chipped crown should be treated as time-sensitive. Delay can lead to infection or deeper cracks.
How long should a dental crown last?
A properly cared-for crown lasts 10–15 years, but some materials like gold or zirconia can last over 20 years.
Can a chipped crown be repaired at home?
No. While dental wax can protect soft tissues temporarily, professional repair is essential to maintain tooth integrity.
Will insurance cover a chipped crown?
Most dental plans cover crown repair or replacement if it’s medically necessary and not caused by patient negligence.