Dental Bonding for a Chipped Tooth: Cost, Process, and What to Expect
A chipped tooth is the single most common reason people get dental bonding. It is fast, affordable, and usually painless. Here is everything you need to know before booking.
Updated 16 April 2026
Chipped Tooth Bonding Cost
$100-$400
Per tooth. More complex chips near the nerve may cost more or require a crown.
When Bonding Works for Chips
Bonding is suitable for:
- Small to medium chips on front teeth
- Corner chips that do not reach the nerve
- Surface chips on incisors and canines
- Chips that do not affect the bite significantly
- Chips on otherwise healthy teeth
A crown may be needed instead if:
- The chip is large (more than a third of the tooth)
- The chip exposes the nerve or pulp
- The tooth has a crack extending below the gum line
- The remaining tooth structure is weakened
- The chip is on a molar under heavy bite pressure
Emergency vs Planned Repair
What to do immediately after chipping a tooth:
- Save any pieces that broke off (bring them to the dentist)
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
- If the edge is sharp, cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum
- Avoid chewing on that side
- Take ibuprofen if there is pain or swelling
- Call your dentist and describe the chip (mention pain or exposed nerve)
Emergency (same-day)
If the chip exposes the nerve, causes significant pain, or has sharp edges cutting your tongue or cheek, call for a same-day appointment. Many dentists reserve emergency slots. Emergency bonding costs the same as planned bonding.
Planned (within 1-2 weeks)
If the chip is cosmetic with no pain, you can wait for a regular appointment. The tooth is not at risk of further damage in the short term unless the chip is large. Use dental wax on sharp edges in the meantime.
The Chip Repair Process
Assessment
The dentist examines the chip, checks for nerve exposure, and determines whether bonding is appropriate or a crown is needed.
Shade matching
A resin shade is selected to match your natural tooth colour. This takes a minute under good lighting.
Surface preparation
The chipped area is roughened with etching gel. No drilling is needed in most cases.
Resin application
Composite resin is applied in layers, rebuilding the missing piece of tooth. Each layer is shaped to match the original contour.
Curing and polishing
Each layer is hardened with UV light. The final shape is polished smooth and your bite is checked for proper alignment.
How Long Does Chipped Tooth Bonding Last?
Chipped tooth bonding lasts 5 to 10 years with good care. The biggest risk is re-chipping the same tooth, especially if you continue the habit that caused the original chip (biting nails, chewing ice, using teeth to open things).
If the bonding does chip, repairs are quick and affordable: $50 to $100 for a touch-up, $100 to $200 for a partial rebond. This is a significant advantage over veneers or crowns.
Insurance Coverage for Chipped Teeth
Chips caused by trauma (an accident or injury) are more often covered by dental insurance than cosmetic chips. If you chipped a tooth in an accident, make sure your dentist records the cause as trauma in the clinical notes.
More likely covered
Chip from accident, fall, or sports injury. Coded as restorative.
Less likely covered
Chip from nail biting, chewing ice, or gradual wear. May be classified cosmetic.
Common Questions
How much does it cost to bond a chipped tooth?
$100-$400 per tooth. Simple chips are at the lower end. Complex chips near the nerve are more expensive and may require a crown instead.
Does insurance cover chipped tooth bonding?
Chips from trauma are more often covered (50-80%). Chips from habits or wear may be classified as cosmetic. Tell your dentist if the chip was caused by an accident.
What should I do immediately after chipping a tooth?
Save any pieces. Rinse with warm salt water. Cover sharp edges with dental wax. Avoid chewing on that side. Call your dentist, noting urgency if there is pain or nerve exposure.
How long does chipped tooth bonding last?
5-10 years. Avoid the habit that caused the chip in the first place. If it does chip again, repairs are quick and cost $50-$200.