A chipped tooth can happen in an instant—biting into something hard, taking a fall, or even grinding your teeth in your sleep. No matter the cause, chipped teeth should never be ignored.

Some chips are minor and purely cosmetic. Others can expose sensitive layers or lead to bigger issues if left untreated. The good news? There are several effective treatments available right here in Anchorage, ranging from quick bonding to full coverage crowns.

This article breaks down what causes chipped teeth, how they’re treated, and what your options are based on the severity of the damage.

Should You Worry About a Chipped Tooth?

It depends on how deep the chip goes. A small, surface-level chip might not cause immediate pain, but it can still weaken the tooth or affect your smile. Larger chips—especially those that reach the inner layers—can expose nerves, increase sensitivity, and lead to infection if not treated.

The Tooth Feels Sharp or Jagged

A rough edge can irritate your tongue or inner cheek. Even if there's no pain, this kind of chip can cause discomfort over time and should be smoothed or repaired.

You Feel Pain When Biting Down

Pain during chewing could mean the chip is deeper than it looks. It may have reached the dentin or even the pulp, which may require more than a simple fix.

There’s Discoloration or Bleeding

A dark spot or bleeding from the tooth could signal trauma or internal damage. These signs should be evaluated by a dentist as soon as possible.

You Notice Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

Sudden sensitivity might indicate that the chip exposed a nerve or created microcracks in the enamel. This makes the tooth more vulnerable to decay and discomfort.

Chewing or Speaking Feels Off

If the chipped area affects how your teeth come together or alters your bite, it can cause strain on your jaw or surrounding teeth.

If any of these apply, it’s best to schedule a dental visit. Early treatment helps prevent more complicated and expensive issues down the line.

What Causes a Tooth to Chip?

Teeth are strong, but they’re not indestructible. Everyday habits, accidents, or underlying dental issues can all lead to a chipped tooth. Understanding the cause can help you avoid future damage and choose the right treatment.

Biting Down on Hard Foods

Ice, hard candies, popcorn kernels, or even pens can crack or chip teeth—especially if there’s existing weakness or decay.

Sports Injuries or Accidents

A hit to the mouth during sports or a fall can easily chip or break a tooth. Mouthguards are a smart way to prevent this during contact activities.

Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Constant grinding wears down enamel over time, making teeth more likely to chip. It often happens at night, so many people aren’t aware it’s an issue until damage appears.

Weak or Worn Enamel

Acidic foods, poor oral hygiene, or genetics can weaken the enamel layer that protects your teeth, making chips more likely from everyday chewing.

Old Fillings or Dental Work

Fillings and crowns can loosen or break, especially if they’re worn down. This creates uneven bite pressure that can chip nearby teeth.

Quick Tip: Using a mouthguard at night, avoiding chewing hard items, and staying on top of your dental checkups can help prevent chips before they happen.

Treatment Options for a Chipped Tooth in Anchorage

Not all chips are treated the same way. The best solution depends on how much of the tooth is damaged, whether nerves are exposed, and which tooth is affected. Here are the most common options your Anchorage dentist may recommend:

Dental Bonding (Best for Small Chips)

Bonding is a quick, affordable fix for minor chips. Your dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to rebuild the missing area, shapes it to match your tooth, then hardens it with a special light. It usually takes just one visit and doesn’t require numbing. Ideal for:

• Front teeth with small cosmetic chips

• Patients looking for a fast, cost-effective solution

Dental Veneers (Great for Front Teeth)

If the chip affects your smile or involves more noticeable damage, veneers might be the better option. A veneer is a thin porcelain shell that covers the front surface of the tooth, restoring shape and appearance. Ideal for:
 

• Larger chips on front teeth

• Cosmetic cases where you want to improve color or alignment too

Dental Crowns (For Larger Breaks or Molars)

Crowns cover the entire tooth, making them a strong choice for deeper chips or damaged back teeth. They restore both function and appearance while protecting what's left of the natural tooth underneath. Ideal for:
 

• Back teeth that take heavy chewing pressure

• Cases where bonding isn’t strong enough

Root Canal and Crown (If the Nerve Is Involved)

If the chip reaches the pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth—a root canal may be needed to remove infected tissue before placing a crown. This prevents pain and saves the tooth from extraction. Ideal for:
 

• Deep chips with pain, sensitivity, or signs of infection

• Teeth showing dark discoloration after trauma

Emergency Dental Visit

Some chips need immediate attention, especially if they’re causing pain or bleeding. Many Anchorage dental clinics offer emergency appointments and can stabilize or temporarily fix the tooth on the same day. What to do before your visit:
 

• Rinse your mouth with warm water

• If possible, save the chipped piece in a clean container

• Apply a cold compress for swelling

• Use dental wax or sugar-free gum to cover any sharp edges temporarily

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Chipped Tooth in Anchorage?

The cost to treat a chipped tooth can vary depending on the treatment you need—ranging from a quick cosmetic fix to more complex restorative care.

Dental Bonding (Small Chips)

• Typically costs between $200 and $600 or more, depending on the extent of the damage and dentist’s experience.

• It's one of the more affordable options and often completed in a single visit.

Dental Veneers (For Visible Front Teeth)

• Porcelain veneers usually cost $1,000 to $2,300 per tooth.

• Composite veneers may cost less, around $500 to $1,200 per tooth, but they’re less durable than porcelain.

• Veneers are mostly considered cosmetic, so insurance may not cover the cost.

Dental Crowns (For Larger Chips or Back Teeth)

• Crowns typically range from $800 to $1,500, depending on the material used.

• In some cases, advanced technology like same-day crowns may affect pricing.

• Insurance often covers a portion of the cost if the crown is medically necessary.

Root Canal + Crown (For Deep Chips Involving the Nerve)

• Root canals generally cost $470 to $1,500, depending on which tooth is treated.

• When combined with a crown, total treatment costs can reach $1,500 to $3,000 or more.

Typical Cost Summary

Insurance and Payment Options

• Insurance Coverage: Most dental insurance plans cover crowns and root canals if medically necessary. Cosmetic treatments like veneers and bonding are often excluded.

• Financing Plans: Many Anchorage clinics offer payment plans, in-house dental savings programs, or third-party financing options to help manage out-of-pocket costs.

Let btyDENTAL Restore Your Smile in Anchorage

Whether it’s a small chip or a more serious break, the team at btyDENTAL is here to help. Our Anchorage dental office offers same-day appointments, personalized treatment options, and experienced care for chipped teeth of all kinds.

We’ll walk you through every step—from evaluation to repair—so you can feel confident and comfortable with your treatment. Don’t wait for a small issue to turn into a bigger problem.

Call btyDENTAL today or book online to schedule your visit.