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What to do about a chipped tooth

What causes a chipped tooth?

If not caused by a blow to the mouth, a chipped tooth may result from any of the following:

  1. Teeth being weakened due to plaque build-up or cavities, making them more likely to chip or crack;
  2. Biting down on something hard, like an ice cube, a bone or hard sweets, especially if your teeth aren’t strong and healthy;
  3. Grinding your teeth, especially at night, due to stress or other factors.

Is a chipped tooth an emergency?

If you’ve lost a significant piece of your tooth or if your tooth is wobbly or if there’s excessive bleeding or pain, you should contact your dentist immediately to arrange an emergency appointment or, if that’s not possible, visit the nearest A&E department. For more minor chips or where the tooth’s still firmly in place and there’s only minimal or no pain or bleeding, you should still contact your dentist within 24 hours or immediately if symptoms worsen.

Do chipped teeth get worse?

Yes, if a chipped tooth is left untreated, it is likely to get worse over time. At best, it will simply spoil your smile or cause pain and sensitivity; at worst, it could result in infection or even tooth loss. At the very least, it is likely to lead to more complicated or costly treatment and increase the risk of damage to surrounding teeth.

Can dentists fix small chips?

Yes, there are a number of options. If it’s only a very small chip, typically on the biting surface of your front teeth, we may simply be able to smooth or polish it out for you. For a chipped tooth which has a minor to moderate chip, we can often rebuild the tooth using Bioclear bonding, colour-matched to blend in so the repair will be undetectable. In some cases, a veneer may be the best option.

How can I temporarily fix a chipped front tooth?

You can’t actually fix a chipped tooth yourself but – ahead of seeing your dentist – you can tackle any pain with over-the-counter pain killers and stop it cutting into your mouth or lips by sticking some sugar free chewing gum over the sharp or jagged edge. If the pain or damage is severe (ie lots of blood, a large portion of the tooth has been lost, loose tooth), you should contact your dentist immediately for advice.

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Portishead means more to us than a place of work - it’s home.

We’ve written an open letter to our local community to share what Evolve Dentistry truly stands for: compassion, authenticity, respect, and doing the right thing - always.

This practice was built with people at its heart. Not transactions, not targets - but neighbours, families, familiar faces and lasting relationships.

If you are part of this wonderful town - whether you’ve been with us for years or are simply curious about who we are - we’d love you to take a few moments to read it.

Thank you for trusting us to care for your smiles. We are incredibly proud to belong here.

👉 Read our letter to Portishead - link in bio.

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Huge congratulations to Maisie 🎉

We are so proud to share that our trainee dental nurse, Maisie, has officially passed her dental nurse exams!

Maisie has worked incredibly hard alongside her training here at the practice, showing real dedication to her learning and to our patients every single day. From supporting clinicians chairside to helping create a calm, welcoming environment, she has grown in confidence and skill throughout her journey.

Becoming a qualified dental nurse is a fantastic achievement, and we couldn’t be happier for her. Please join us in congratulating Maisie next time you see her at the practice! 👏

Well done, Maisie – we’re so proud of you. 💙

#DentalNurse #TeamEvolve #PracticeLife #DentalTeam #ProudMoment
Thinking about straightening your teeth but unsure where to begin?

Lisa breaks down the difference between clear aligners and fixed braces - simply, clearly and without the jargon.

Both are effective. Both can create beautiful results. The right choice depends on you.

Watch the video to learn more, and if you’d like personalised advice, we’d be delighted to help.

#PortisheadBusiness #FamilyDentist #Orthodontics #DentalCare #SmileJourney #EvolveDentistry
🦷 Did you know your oral health affects your whole body?

Your mouth doesn’t exist in isolation. Gum health, inflammation and oral hygiene can all play a role in your wider wellbeing – from heart health to confidence and mental wellness.

We’ve just published a new blog exploring the link between oral health and overall wellness, and why looking after your teeth and gums is about much more than your smile.

If you’re interested in oral health and general health Portishead, this is a great read and a helpful reminder of how small daily habits can support long-term health.

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When is root canal treatment needed?

It’s a question many patients ask — and in this video, Richard explains it clearly and simply.

Root canal treatment is usually needed when the nerve inside a tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen because of deep decay, a crack in the tooth, repeated dental work, or sometimes after an injury.

You might experience symptoms like persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers, pain when biting, or swelling around the gum. However, sometimes there are very few symptoms at all — which is why regular check-ups at the practice are so important.

The good news is that root canal treatment is designed to relieve pain, not cause it. It removes the infection, saves the natural tooth, and helps you avoid extraction.

Watch Richard’s video to understand the signs to look out for — and if you’re worried about a tooth, get in touch with our reception team for advice.
Smile Hack 🍎🥕

Love a sweet treat? Jane shares a simple swap that your teeth will thank you for.

Sticky sweets cling to your teeth and sit in the tiny grooves for longer, feeding the bacteria that cause decay. The longer they stick around, the more damage they can do.

Instead, try swapping them for crunchy veg or a handful of nuts. Foods like carrots, cucumber and peppers have a natural crunch that helps stimulate saliva, which protects your teeth. Nuts are also a lower-sugar option and far less likely to cling to enamel.

Small changes really do make a big difference over time.
Are electric toothbrushes better than manual?

It’s a question we’re asked a lot at the practice – and in this video, Carol gives a clear, honest answer.

Electric toothbrushes can make it easier to clean effectively, especially if you struggle with technique, brushing for long enough, or reaching certain areas. Many people find they remove plaque more consistently, simply because they do most of the work for you.

That said, a manual toothbrush can still do a great job when used properly. It’s less about the brush itself and more about how you use it.

Watch Carol’s quick explanation to find out what we usually recommend – and how to make sure you’re getting the most from your brushing routine.

If you’re unsure whether your brushing technique is working for you, mention it at your next appointment and we’ll be happy to guide you. 🪥
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