How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Chipped Tooth
The moment I read chipped tooth, my mind went to — how much to fix a chipped tooth? Rebuilding your smile is certainly important, but it can also help to regain your confidence and comfort. Ever had your tongue gnawed against the prick of a chipped tooth? Or even hiding your smile because of it? We break down the cost, choices and actual answers so that you can re-acquire your good smile at a value you possibly can afford.
Why Fixing a Chipped Tooth Matters
However, before we get into the price — why should you fix a chipped tooth? At first, I assumed my chipped front tooth was merely a cosmetic concern. But soon I figured out it is not just a marketing tool.
- Avoid oral problems: Often a chip tooth will loosen with time, leading you into serious dental problems.
- Have your smile back: Acquire confidence with an entire, good-enough-to-look smile.
- Avoid discomfort: That little edge is going to be annoying, and even painful over time if you do not get rid of it.
Repairing/fix a chipped tooth is not only a luxury but also an important step in maintaining your dental health as a whole.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Chipped Tooth?
The price for a chipped tooth remedy may vary according to your chosen treatment and the severity of damage. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Treatment Option | Average Cost (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Bonding | $100–$1,000 per tooth | Small chips |
| Veneers | $500–$2,500 per tooth | Front teeth, aesthetics |
| Crowns | $800–$3,000 per tooth | Large chips, molars |
| Root Canal + Crown | $1,500–$3,500 | Severe damage |
| Dental Implants | $3,000–$5,000 per implant | Irreparable damage |
What Factors Affect the Cost of Fixing a Chipped Tooth?
Extent of the Damage
My chipped tooth buried in preparation for some plant media instead, the bond was trivial when I chapped it. But if it has a big crack or other structural damage, you will likely need a crown or veneer instead, which is pricier.
Location of the Tooth
Cosmetic treats: Front teeth are more visible and may require cosmetic treatments like veneers, which are pricier. Crowns may be especially important for molars, which are the hardest teeth to replace.
Dentist’s Expertise
Finding a cheap dentist is easy. Remember that there are some things you don’t want to skimp on, such as the quality of work, so be prepared to dig a little deeper into your pockets to pay your money for the services and skills of a highly experienced dentist. I sought out a better knowledge of cosmetic dentistry and I chose the best dentist ever for my implant — which means opting for a cosmetics expert to fix the front of my mouth — and it turned out so lovely!
Insurance Coverage
My dental insurance gave me partial coverage for getting my tooth fixed. Most cosmetic treatments, such as veneers, are not covered, although basic repair is typically covered generally under insurance plans separately (such as bonding or crowns).
Treatment Options for a Chipped Tooth
Dental Bonding: Quick and Affordable
The most cost-effective and fastest method for a chipped tooth repair is usually dental bonding. A tooth-colored resin is placed onto the tooth, shaped to your bite, and hardened with a special light.
Fast, cheap, and easy—what are the pros?
Disadvantages: not quite as durable as other choices
Bonding saved my life when I chipped my tooth. It was around $200, and the results looked natural.
Veneers: For a Picture-Perfect Smile
Which is why, if aesthetics are a concern for you, then veneers make an excellent option. A porcelain or composite “shell” is specially made to cover the front side of the tooth.
Claimed Pros: Natural look, durable.
Downsides: Pricey, potentially removes enamel
I have not been through with veneers, but a friend of mine who has assured me that it helped her gain self-confidence.
Crowns: Strength and Protection
A crown — also called a cap — is placed over the damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength.
Benefits: Durable, protects the tooth.
Cons: It is expensive and it takes more effort.
In my case, my dad needed a crown for his chipped molar when he was eating some popcorn. The price tag was around $1,000 but it has so far been holding up nicely for years.
Root Canal and Crown: For Severe Cases
If the chip exposes the pulp, it may be necessary to do a root canal to avoid infection before capping the tooth with a crown.
Payment Plan and Pros: Saves tooth, squelches infection
Disadvantages: More invasive, lags behind in price
Dental Implants: When All Else Fails
Dental implants are a permanent solution for teeth that cannot be saved. This includes placing an artificial tooth instead of the missing one.
Benefits: Long-lasting, looks very natural.
Disadvantages: Very costly, need for surgery.
How to Save Money on Tooth Repair
Check Your Insurance
When I chipped my tooth, I had bonding covered by insurance. Be sure to check exactly what your policy includes.
Explore Payment Plans
Most dentists provide payment plans. I got one to use for my crown and was able to pay it off in installments.
Consider Dental Schools
Dental schools usually offer this type of work at a lower cost, as it is done by students under supervision.
Prevent Future Chips
Get a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play sports. I found this out the hard way when I chipped my tooth in a basketball game!
My Personal Experience
I chipped my front tooth once and was embarrassed every time I smiled. The damage was small, so my dentist suggested bonding. It took less than an hour and only cost $250. The result? A natural, inconspicuous tooth that instantly gave me my confidence back.
When Should You See a Dentist for a Chipped Tooth?
While not every chip needs to be addressed right away, several do. Here’s what to look for:
- Razor-sharp surfaces slicing your tongue or cheek.
- Pain or sensitivity.
- A fissure that only appears to widen with age.
Final Thoughts: Is Fixing a Chipped Tooth Worth It?
Absolutely! If this is all to enhance functionality, aesthetics, or confidence, then a chipped tooth repair is part of yourself and well worth the investment. Correcting mine was less about dentistry and more a matter of re-entering the world as myself.
Do you ever chipped a tooth? Tell us your story—I am curious how you dealt with it!