Dr. Cindy Li Fix Chipped Teeth with Composite Bonding in Hamilton ON

I am Dr. Cindy Li, and I enjoy helping Hamilton families feel confident about their smiles. At Excel Dental on East Avenue South, I often see chipped teeth from everyday life, a quick bite on something hard, an old filling that let go, or an unexpected bump during sports. Composite bonding is one of my favourite conservative options because it can restore a natural look quickly while preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible.

Why chipped teeth happen in everyday life in Hamilton

In my practice near St. Clair in Hamilton, chipped teeth commonly show up after simple moments that patients barely remember, such as biting into a crusty bagel, chewing ice, or cracking a nail with a tooth. Sometimes the chip is small and cosmetic, and sometimes it exposes deeper layers of the tooth that can become sensitive.

I also see chips related to wear and tear. Teeth that have been grinding at night, teeth with older fillings, or teeth that have had previous dental work can be more prone to chipping along edges. When a patient tells me, “It just broke out of nowhere,” I take that seriously and look for underlying stress or weakened enamel.

What composite bonding is and how it repairs a chip

Composite bonding uses a tooth-coloured resin that I shape and polish directly on the tooth to rebuild what’s missing. The material is designed to blend with your natural tooth colour, so when it’s done well, the repair should look like it belongs.

For a chipped tooth, bonding can restore the edge, smooth sharp areas, and improve symmetry. I match the shade carefully under operatory lighting and then layer and contour the composite so it reflects light naturally. The goal is not only to “fill the chip,” but to make the tooth look and feel normal again when you talk, smile, and chew.

Bonding is also a conservative approach. In many cases, I can repair a chip with minimal alteration to the tooth, which is important when the tooth is otherwise healthy.

What to expect at your bonding appointment at Excel Dental

I start by listening to what bothers you most, whether it’s appearance, sensitivity, or the way the tooth feels against your lip. Then I examine the tooth, the bite, and the surrounding enamel to confirm bonding is appropriate and to rule out cracks that extend deeper.

If we proceed, I gently prepare the surface, apply an adhesive, and add composite in layers. I shape the tooth carefully so it fits your bite and doesn’t feel “too long” or bulky. Once the material is cured, I polish it to a smooth, natural finish so it doesn’t catch stain easily.

Most simple chips can be treated in a single visit. If the chip is larger or the bite is challenging, I may recommend a staged approach so we can fine-tune the shape and comfort.

When composite bonding is a good choice and when it is not

Composite bonding is a great option for small to moderate chips, worn edges, minor shape corrections, and closing tiny gaps near a chipped corner. It is especially appealing when you want an improvement without extensive drilling.

That said, bonding is not always the best long-term solution. If a tooth is heavily broken down, has significant decay, or the chip is caused by a deeper crack, a different type of restoration may be more predictable. If your bite places heavy forces on the repaired area, bonding can still work, but we may need to discuss protective habits or a night guard to help it last.

My job is to recommend what will be stable in your mouth, not just what looks nice on the day you leave.

Comfort, sensitivity, and how natural it looks

Patients often worry that bonding will look “patched.” With careful shade selection, layering, and polishing, composite can look very natural. I pay close attention to the surface texture and edge translucency because those details help the repair blend in with the neighbouring tooth.

Bonding is typically comfortable. Many small repairs do not require freezing, though I can absolutely numb the area if you prefer or if the chip is close to a sensitive layer. If the tooth was sensitive before treatment, bonding often reduces sensitivity by sealing exposed surfaces.

Afterward, your bite should feel even. If anything feels off, I want you to tell me, because a quick adjustment can prevent premature chipping.

How long bonding lasts and how to care for it

Composite bonding can last for years, but longevity depends on the size of the repair, your bite, and your habits. Nails, pens, ice, and hard candies are common culprits when bonding chips again. Grinding and clenching can also shorten its lifespan.

I recommend treating bonded teeth like natural teeth, but with a bit more mindfulness. Brush twice daily with a non-abrasive toothpaste, floss daily, and attend regular checkups so I can monitor margins, wear, and staining.

Composite can pick up stain over time, especially with frequent coffee, tea, red wine, or smoking. The good news is that in many cases I can re-polish a bonded area to refresh the shine, and small touch-ups are often straightforward.

FAQ

Is a chipped tooth a dental emergency?
It depends on the size and symptoms. If you have pain, sensitivity that’s worsening, bleeding, or a sharp edge cutting your tongue, I consider that urgent. If it’s a small cosmetic chip without discomfort, it still deserves an assessment soon because chips can spread.

Can composite bonding fix a front tooth chip in one visit?
Yes, many front-tooth chips can be repaired in a single appointment. In my practice, the key is taking time to match the shade and shape so it looks natural.

Will bonding match my tooth colour exactly?
I aim for a close match by selecting the right shade and using layering when needed. Some teeth have complex colour and translucency, so perfection is not always possible, but most patients are pleasantly surprised by how well it blends.

Does bonding hurt?
Bonding is usually very comfortable. If the chip is shallow, you may not need freezing. If you’re nervous or sensitive, I can numb the area so you don’t feel anything sharp or unpleasant.

How long does composite bonding last on a chipped tooth?
Many repairs last several years, and some last longer. Longevity depends on the size of the chip, your bite, and habits like nail biting or chewing hard objects.

Can bonding fall off?
It can, especially if the bite hits the bonded edge or if the tooth is used like a tool. If bonding chips or comes off, I recommend calling promptly so I can assess and usually repair it efficiently.

What if the chip is big or the tooth is cracked?
If I suspect a deeper crack or the tooth is structurally compromised, bonding alone may not be stable. I will explain what I see and discuss options that better protect the tooth.

Will bonding stain over time?
Composite can stain more than natural enamel. I suggest rinsing after coffee or tea when possible, brushing gently with a non-abrasive toothpaste, and having regular cleanings so we can keep it looking its best.

Can I eat right after bonding?
In most cases, yes. The material hardens during the appointment. If you were frozen, I recommend waiting until numbness wears off so you don’t accidentally bite your lip or cheek.

Is bonding covered by dental insurance in Ontario?
Coverage varies by plan and by whether the repair is considered restorative or cosmetic. In my office, we can help you understand typical coverage and submit the appropriate documentation.

What if my chipped tooth is sensitive to cold?
Sensitivity can happen when the chip exposes deeper tooth layers. Bonding often helps by sealing the area, but I always check for signs that the nerve is irritated or that there is an underlying crack.

Can you smooth a small chip instead of bonding it?
Sometimes, yes. If the chip is tiny and the tooth shape allows it, smoothing and polishing can remove the sharpness and improve appearance. I’ll only do this if it won’t compromise the tooth’s look or function.

More Information

For reliable guidance on oral health and dental treatment standards in Ontario, I recommend the Ontario Dental Association at https://www.oda.ca and the Canadian Dental Association at https://www.cda-adc.ca. If you want broader provincial health information, including general healthcare resources and programs, https://www.ontario.ca is also helpful. These sources are useful because they offer patient-friendly explanations, professional standards, and trustworthy context as you consider treatment options.

If you have a chipped tooth and want to know whether composite bonding is the right fix for you, call Excel Dental at 905-529-2164 and I will be happy to see you and talk through your options.