A chipped front-tooth edge
A chip after a fall or accident needs an examination of the affected tooth before the repair is planned.
Smile Design Center
Front-tooth resin
A small chip or gap does not tell the whole story. The tooth condition and bite help determine whether direct composite is suitable.
What this treatment involves
Tooth-coloured composite is shaped directly on the tooth to repair selected small chips, gaps or cavities. The dentist first checks the defect and bite. Any preparation and the choice of restoration depend on that assessment; preserving tooth structure does not mean every case can be treated without removal.
- Material
- Composite resin
Shaped directly on the tooth
- Before treatment
- Examination & shade
Defect, tooth condition and bite
- After treatment
- Care & review
Check wear, staining and bite changes
What would you like assessed?
These concerns are starting points for an examination, not a diagnosis or a recommendation for resin.
A gap between front teeth
The dentist checks the gap, surrounding tooth shape and bite before deciding whether adding composite is appropriate.
A cavity in a front tooth
The extent of decay and remaining tooth structure determine whether a direct filling or another approach is needed.
Wear associated with grinding
Worn edges and grinding habits need to be considered together when planning the repair and its care.
From assessment to the bite check
This is the sequence for a direct resin restoration when it is selected. It does not represent four separate appointments.
Examination and shade planning
The dentist examines the defect, remaining tooth and bite, then assesses whether resin is suitable. The planned shade is selected with reference to nearby teeth.
Preparation suited to the defect
Cleaning, treatment of decay where present and surface preparation are tailored to the defect. The aim is to retain healthy tooth structure; the amount of removal is assessed individually.
Direct shaping and light-curing
Composite is placed and shaped directly on the tooth, then hardened with a curing light. The planned contour depends on the defect and the tooth being repaired.
AI-generated educational model of composite added directly to a selected tooth defect. The visible boundary and colour difference distinguish the materials; they do not predict the final shade. Preparation, contour and bite are assessed for the individual tooth. Polishing and bite check
The restoration is polished and the bite checked. The dentist explains care and reviews any habits that could affect the repaired edge.
Caring for a resin restoration
Daily habits
Discuss nail-biting or grinding with the dentist. These habits can affect the repaired edge.
Pigmented food and drink can contribute to staining over time. Follow the cleaning advice given for your teeth and restoration.
Review and maintenance
Attend the reviews agreed with the dentist so the restoration, surface and bite can be checked. Polishing, repair or replacement may be considered if needed.
Questions before arranging a visit
Can the repair be completed in one visit?
Selected small chips, gaps or cavities can often be treated in one visit with direct resin. This is confirmed after examination; more extensive damage or a different treatment choice can change the schedule. Confirm the required appointments before arranging travel.
Will the resin match my other teeth?
Shade selection aims to blend the restoration with nearby teeth. Discuss the planned colour and shape before treatment; an exact visual match is not promised.