You can usually eat soft foods if the tooth isn't painful, but avoid biting into hard or crunchy foods with the damaged tooth. Chew on the opposite side until your dentist has examined it. If eating causes pain, arrange a dental appointment promptly. 

 Dental bonding for a small chip is usually comfortable and may not require anesthesia. If the damage extends deeper into the tooth, your dentist may recommend numbing the area. We'll explain what to expect before starting the repair. 

 It depends on the repair and how you care for your teeth. Dental bonding can last several years, although biting hard objects or grinding your teeth may shorten its lifespan. Regular dental checkups help your dentist monitor the repair and address wear. 

 Yes, if the damage exposes deeper tooth structures, bacteria may eventually reach the pulp and cause an infection. A small surface chip doesn't automatically mean infection is likely. Contact your dentist promptly if you develop persistent pain, swelling, or increasing sensitivity. 

 Yes, many small chips can be repaired in a single visit using dental bonding or a tooth-colored filling. Larger breaks may require a crown or additional treatment. After examining your tooth, we'll explain whether the repair can be completed that day or requires another appointment.