Chipped Tooth Care on the Upper East Side (Manhattan)

Why Choose Dr. Min for Chipped Teeth

  • Columbia-trained prosthodontist skilled in conservative repairs that blend seamlessly with your natural enamel.
  • Award-winning precision and military-honed discipline—expect meticulous shade-matching and clear, calm communication.
  • Esthetics + function: We restore looks and bite stability to prevent future fractures.
  • Digital diagnostics: high-resolution photos, shade mapping, and bite analysis for durable results.

What Counts as a “Chipped Tooth”?

A chip is a loss of enamel at the edge or corner of a tooth. It may be purely cosmetic or extend into dentin, causing sensitivity and roughness. Swift, conservative repair prevents crack propagation and further wear.

Common Causes

  • Biting hard items (ice, nutshells, hard candy)
  • Nighttime clenching/grinding (bruxism)
  • Sport or accidental trauma
  • Old, worn fillings or thin enamel edges
  • Uneven bite forces or misalignment

When to Seek Care

  • Sharp edge that irritates the tongue or cheek
  • New sensitivity to cold/air or biting pressure
  • Visible crack lines or a piece that keeps flaking
  • Chipped front tooth affecting your smile or speech

Treatment Options We Provide

  • Enamel Shaping/Polishing: Micro-adjustment for tiny, shallow chips.
  • Cosmetic Bonding (Tooth-Colored Composite): Single-visit repair; sculpted, layered, and polished to match adjacent teeth.
  • Porcelain Veneer: For larger front-tooth chips or worn edges; superior esthetics and stain resistance.
  • Onlay or Crown: When the chip compromises strength or involves a large filling or cusp.
  • Night Guard (Occlusal Guard): Protects against future chips from grinding/clenching.
  • Bite Adjustment: Fine-tunes contacts to reduce stress on vulnerable edges.

The Process at a Glance

1) Exam & Shade Match

Photos, bite check, and shade mapping to plan a natural-looking repair.

2) Conservative Prep

Minimal or no drilling in most bonding cases; enamel is cleaned and conditioned.

3) Precision Repair

Layered composite or porcelain provisionals; careful contouring for symmetry.

4) Finish & Polish

High-gloss polish and bite refinement for comfort and longevity.

5) Prevent & Protect

Night guard if bruxism is present; coaching on habits (no ice, pens).

Comfort & Safety

  • Gentle local anesthesia when needed (many small chips are no-shot).
  • Rubber dam or isolation shields for clean bonding.
  • BPA-free, high-quality materials and meticulous moisture control.

Cost & Insurance

  • Upfront, itemized estimates; fees depend on size, location, and material (composite vs porcelain).
  • Many PPO plans help with necessary repairs; elective veneer coverage varies—our team verifies and files claims.
  • Flexible payment options available.

Aftercare Tips

  • Avoid hard or sticky foods on the repaired edge for 24 hours (bonding).
  • Wear your night guard if prescribed.
  • Use a soft brush and non-abrasive toothpaste; keep 6-month cleanings.
  • Call if you feel a high spot, roughness, or persistent sensitivity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the repair match my tooth?
Yes—layered composites and custom shading aim for an invisible blend with your enamel.

How long does bonding last?
Many years with good habits; touch-ups are simple if edges wear or stain.

Do I need a veneer or crown?
Only if the chip is large, repeatedly fractures, or the tooth is structurally compromised.

What if I keep chipping the same tooth?
We’ll evaluate your bite and parafunctional habits; a night guard or minor bite adjustment often prevents repeats.

About Dr. Daniel Min

BA, University of Texas at Austin
DDS, University of Texas (American Esthetic Dental Association award; “Student of the Year” in clinical performance)
MS in Prosthodontics, Columbia University; former part-time clinical professor
U.S. Army veteran; current Army Reserve officer
Member: Academy of Prosthodontics; International Congress of Oral Implantologists

Service Area

Conveniently located on the Upper East Side and serving patients across Manhattan and the greater New York City area.

Call to Action

Chipped a tooth and want it to look brand new—fast? Book a same-week chipped-tooth repair with Dr. Daniel Min for a seamless, durable fix.