Cracked a tooth and feeling panicked? Here’s what you need to know — and do.
Cracking a tooth can be alarming — especially if it happens unexpectedly during a meal, a fall, or while playing sports. The good news? Many cracked teeth can be saved with prompt dental care.
In this post, we’ll walk you through the different types of cracks, what counts as a dental emergency, and how fast action can help save your tooth.
✅ When Is a Cracked Tooth a Dental Emergency?
Not all cracks are created equal. Some are minor and can wait a few days. Others require immediate attention to relieve pain, prevent infection, or save the tooth.
You may need emergency care if you experience:
- 🚨 Severe pain when biting or chewing
This may suggest the crack has reached the nerve or pulp. - 🚨 Visible fracture or split in the tooth
A deep or jagged crack is more serious and requires fast treatment. - 🚨 Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
Could indicate nerve exposure or enamel damage. - 🚨 Swelling around the tooth or gums
May signal an infection or internal damage. - 🚨 Bleeding or sharp edges
Can lead to further injury or tissue damage.
🦷 Can a Cracked Tooth Be Saved?
Yes — in many cases, a cracked tooth can be saved, depending on the severity and how quickly you get help.
| Type of Crack | Can It Be Saved? | Common Treatments |
|---|---|---|
| Craze lines (surface cracks) | ✅ Yes | No treatment needed or cosmetic smoothing |
| Minor cracks | ✅ Yes | Dental bonding or filling |
| Moderate cracks (into dentin) | ✅ Often | Dental crown or onlay |
| Deep cracks (into pulp) | ⚠️ Possibly | Root canal + crown |
| Split tooth | ❌ Sometimes not | Partial extraction or full replacement |
| Vertical root fracture | ❌ Rarely | Usually needs extraction |
🛟 What to Do Right Away If You Crack a Tooth
Until you get to the dentist, follow these emergency tips:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep it clean.
- If there’s swelling, apply a cold compress to the cheek.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
- If there are sharp edges, cover them with dental wax or sugar-free gum.
- Bring any tooth fragments you can find — they may help during treatment.
🟡 When It’s Not an Emergency
If your cracked tooth:
- Isn’t causing pain
- Doesn’t have visible deep damage
- Isn’t sensitive to temperature or pressure
…it may be safe to wait a day or two. Still, don’t delay too long — untreated cracks can worsen and become more difficult (and expensive) to fix.
Final Thoughts
A cracked tooth might feel like a disaster in the moment, but with prompt dental care, there’s a good chance it can be repaired and saved.
📍If you’ve cracked a tooth in Toronto and aren’t sure what to do, we’re here to help. Call our clinic now for emergency dental advice or to book a same-day visit. We’ll assess the damage, relieve your discomfort, and protect your smile.