If swelling makes it hard to breathe or swallow, or bleeding will not stop, call 911 or go to an emergency room right away.
Broken, Chipped or Cracked Tooth Repair in Seattle
A tooth can chip on a fork, crack on a popcorn kernel, or break in a fall. Dr. Jaime Lee evaluates the damage at Smile Art on First Hill and repairs it with bonding, a filling, a crown, or other care that fits the size of the break.
Is a chipped tooth an emergency?
Call the same day if a large piece is missing, the tooth hurts, the edge is cutting your tongue or cheek, or you can see pink or red inside the tooth. A tiny chip with no pain can usually wait for a regular visit, but a crack can hide damage, so it is still worth a call.
What can I do until I see Dr. Lee?
For first-aid steps, we share the American Dental Association's guidance, quoted word for word:
"For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area. Put cold compresses on the face to keep any swelling down."
"When you have a dental emergency, it's important to visit your dentist or an emergency room as soon as possible."
Source: American Dental Association, MouthHealthy, "Dental Emergencies".
Why do teeth chip or crack?
Biting something hard, such as ice, a cherry pit, or a fork, is a common cause. Large old fillings, teeth weakened by decay, and nighttime grinding also make breaks more likely. Falls and sports injuries account for many broken front teeth.
What happens after the repair?
A bonded or filled tooth is checked at your next routine visit to make sure it is holding up well. If grinding contributed to the break, Dr. Lee may talk with you about a night guard to protect the repair.
How does Dr. Lee repair a broken tooth?
She examines the tooth, checks for cracks below the surface, and takes X-rays if needed. Small chips are often repaired with bonding, larger breaks with a filling, onlay or crown, and a break that reaches the nerve may need a root canal. She explains which repair fits your tooth before she begins.
Related care: Dental bonding, Dental crowns, Same-day crowns, Inlays and onlays.
How much does an emergency visit cost?
The cost depends on the exam, any X-rays, and the treatment the tooth needs. Smile Art accepts all PPO dental plans, and our team will gladly verify your benefits before your appointment. For out-of-pocket expenses, we offer straightforward financing options through CareCredit, Cherry, and LendingClub.
PPO insurance
Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.
Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.
Coverage depends on the treatment provided and your individual PPO plan.
Third-party financing
Available through:
- CareCredit
- Cherry
- LendingClub
Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.
Frequently asked questions
Can a chipped tooth heal on its own?
No. Enamel does not grow back, so a chip stays until it is repaired.
Should I keep the broken piece?
Yes, bring it with you to the visit.
Can a cracked tooth be saved?
Many cracked teeth can be restored. Dr. Lee examines how far the crack extends before recommending a repair.
Does insurance cover repairing a broken tooth?
Repairs are often covered differently from cosmetic care. Our team checks your PPO benefits before treatment.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.