Also known as: tooth chip, chipped baby tooth, chipped front tooth, small piece of tooth missing, broken tooth edge, rough tooth edge

A chipped tooth in children can range from a tiny rough edge to a clearly missing piece of tooth that is easy to see when your child smiles, eats, or talks. Some chips cause no immediate pain, while others lead to sensitivity, tenderness when biting, or irritation from a sharp edge rubbing the tongue, lips, or cheeks. In many cases, kids will first notice that the tooth feels jagged or “different,” even if the chip looks small from the outside.

This symptom usually means part of the tooth structure has been damaged by injury, pressure, wear, or decay. Even a minor chip can worsen over time if the tooth keeps taking force during chewing or if the damaged area is left unprotected. Untreated chips may become more sensitive, break further, or expose deeper tooth layers that need more involved care. Early evaluation helps determine how deep the chip is and which treatment can protect the tooth as comfortably and conservatively as possible.

Possible Causes of a Chipped Tooth

A chipped tooth is commonly associated with:

  • Dental injury or impact to the mouth – A fall, sports injury, or bump to the face can knock off a small piece of tooth and leave behind a rough or uneven edge.

  • Biting hard foods or objects – Chewing ice, hard candy, popcorn kernels, or other firm objects can chip a tooth, especially along the biting edge or corners.

  • Weakened enamel or tooth decay – Teeth that are already softened by enamel defects or cavities are more likely to chip under everyday chewing pressure.

  • Teeth grinding or clenching – Repeated pressure from grinding, especially at night, can wear down tooth edges and make them more likely to chip.

  • Thin or previously worn tooth edges – Teeth with worn corners, past trauma, or naturally thinner enamel may chip more easily than stronger, fully intact tooth structure.

Treatments for a Chipped Tooth

Depending on the size and depth of the chip, treatment may include:

  • Fillings – For a small chipped area, a filling can rebuild the missing portion of the tooth, smooth rough edges, and protect more sensitive inner tooth structure.
  • Crowns – A crown may be recommended when a larger portion of the tooth is chipped or weakened and needs more complete coverage and protection during chewing.
  • Baby Root Canals (Pulpotomy, aka Pulp Therapy) – If the chip is deep enough to irritate or expose the inner nerve tissue, pulp therapy may be needed to keep the baby tooth comfortable and functional.
  • Emergency Dentistry – If a chipped tooth happens suddenly after an injury or causes pain right away, emergency dental care can help relieve discomfort and determine the safest next step for treatment.

When to See a Dentist

Consider scheduling an appointment if your child:

  • Has a visible chip, missing corner, or rough edge on a tooth
  • Complains of sensitivity when chewing, biting, or drinking something cold
  • Has a sharp edge that is rubbing the tongue, lip, or cheek
  • Chipped a tooth after a fall, sports injury, or biting something hard
  • Shows increasing pain, swelling, or bleeding after the chip happens

Related Symptoms

Concerned About a Chipped Tooth?

Chipped tooth is often a sign that something needs attention. We’d love to evaluate your child’s symptoms and make their visit comfortable, positive, and stress-free. Schedule an appointment today and get the answers you need.