Chipped Tooth
 Chipped teeth are one of the most common dental concerns parents bring to us, and they rarely happen at convenient times. A fall on the playground, a collision during a game, or even an unexpected bite into something hard can leave a child with a damaged tooth before the day is over. At Puyallup Pediatric Dentistry, we work with children and teens who experience this regularly, and we understand the worry that comes with it for both kids and their parents.How Children's Teeth Are BuiltUnderstanding why a chipped tooth matters starts with knowing how teeth are structured. The outer layer is enamel, the hardest substance in the human body, which protects everything underneath. Beneath enamel is dentin, a slightly softer layer containing tiny channels that lead toward the nerve. At the center of each tooth is the pulp, which holds the blood vessels and nerve tissue that keep the tooth alive. When a chip breaks through enamel, dentin becomes exposed. That's what causes the sensitivity or discomfort many children feel after a chip, especially with cold drinks or certain foods. Enamel does not regenerate once it's lost, which means the tooth is more vulnerable at that spot until a dentist restores it. This is true for both baby teeth and permanent teeth, though the approach to treatment may differ depending on which type of tooth is involved. Both deserve professional attention. Why Kids Are Prone to Chipped TeethChildren are active, and their dental development is ongoing, which creates a few factors that make chips more likely than in adults. Falls and collisions are the most common culprit. Young children are still developing coordination, and tumbles during play, sports, and everyday activity can result in impact to the mouth. Front teeth are especially vulnerable because of their position and prominence. Hard foods and habits also play a role. Biting ice, chewing on pencils, or using teeth to open packaging are patterns that place concentrated stress on enamel. Even hard candies, which many children eat frequently, can fracture a tooth unexpectedly. For children who grind their teeth at night, a habit known as bruxism, the enamel surface gradually wears thinner over time. This doesn't always produce noticeable symptoms, but it does make chips more likely. During routine exams, our team looks for wear patterns that may indicate teeth grinding. In older children and teens, previous dental work can sometimes be a contributing factor. A large dental filling or a tooth that has undergone prior treatment may have a different structural profile than an intact tooth, creating areas that require extra care. When to Call Us Right AwaySome chips can wait for a scheduled appointment, while others need same-day attention. Call Puyallup Pediatric Dentistry promptly if your child experiences any of the following after a chip or dental injury:
If the chip appears minor and your child is not in significant pain, it still warrants a visit, though it may not need to be an emergency call. In the meantime, have your child avoid chewing on that side, and keep very hot or cold foods and drinks away from the affected tooth. It's worth noting that pain alone is not always a reliable measure of how serious a chip is. Some significant fractures cause little immediate discomfort, while even a smaller chip near the gumline can cause persistent irritation. When in doubt, call and describe what you're seeing. Treatment Options We Offer for Chipped TeethAt Puyallup Pediatric Dentistry, we tailor treatment to each child's specific situation, including the tooth type, the extent of the chip, and the child's age and overall oral health. Dental bonding is one of the most common approaches for children. A tooth-colored composite resin is applied to the chipped area, shaped to match the natural contour of the tooth, and hardened in place with a curing light. It's a gentle, conservative option that typically doesn't require anesthesia for minor chips, and children usually find the process straightforward. For baby teeth, the treatment goals focus on comfort, function, and protecting the surrounding tissue and developing permanent tooth underneath. Depending on the chip's location and severity, we may smooth a sharp edge, apply bonding material, or, in some cases, recommend extraction if the tooth is near the end of its natural lifespan and further treatment isn't in the child's best interest. For permanent teeth with more extensive chips, a crown may be recommended to restore full function and protect the tooth from further damage. Crowns distribute bite pressure evenly across the tooth and provide long-term durability. When a chip has reached the inner pulp of the tooth, treatment to address the nerve tissue may be necessary. In children, this is sometimes called a pulpotomy for baby teeth or a pulp cap for permanent teeth, depending on the extent of involvement. Our team takes a gentle, child-focused approach to these procedures and explains each step in terms your child can understand. Keeping Your Child's Smile Protected Going ForwardAfter a chipped tooth is treated, simple habits go a long way toward protecting both the restoration and the rest of your child's teeth. Encourage brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled brush, consistent flossing, and keeping regular checkup appointments so our team can monitor how the restoration is holding up. If sports are part of your child's routine, a properly fitted mouthguard is one of the most effective ways to prevent future dental injuries. We can discuss options that work well for children at different ages and activity levels. For children who grind their teeth at night, a nightguard may also be appropriate. Schedule an Appointment at Puyallup Pediatric Dentistry
If your child has chipped a tooth, we're here to help. Puyallup Pediatric Dentistry provides attentive, child-friendly care for dental injuries and restorative needs. Call (253) 864-9889 to schedule an evaluation, and let us take care of the rest. |
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Contact Information11201 88th Ave E #120 Puyallup, WA 98373-3802 (253) 864-9889 info@smilesforkids.com Follow UsAt Puyallup Pediatric Dentistry, we make it easy to schedule your appointment online. Click the button below to access our secure appointment request form. You'll then be contacted by our office to confirm your appointment date and time.
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