Dental injuries can happen in an instant a fall, a sports collision, or a car accident can lead to a cracked, chipped, or fractured tooth. When trauma strikes, knowing what to do next can make the difference between saving or losing a tooth. At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, we specialize in handling dental emergencies, including fractured teeth, with prompt and professional care.
What Is a Fractured Tooth?
A fractured tooth refers to any break or crack in the enamel, dentin, or root of a tooth. Tooth fractures vary in severity, from minor chips to deep cracks that extend into the pulp or root. Common types include:
Craze lines: Superficial cracks in the enamel, usually painless
Chipped tooth: Small portion of enamel breaks off
Cracked tooth: Crack extends vertically without complete separation
Split tooth: Full separation due to an untreated crack
Root fracture: Begins at the root and moves toward the chewing surface
Fractured teeth can lead to pain, sensitivity, and infection if not treated promptly.
Common Causes of Tooth Fractures
While decay weakens the tooth structure over time, accidents and trauma are the most common reasons for sudden fractures. These include:
Sports injuries or contact sports without a mouthguard
Slips, falls, or facial impacts
Motor vehicle accidents
Biting down on hard objects like ice or popcorn kernels
Using teeth as tools (e.g., opening bottles or packaging)
Signs You May Have a Fractured Tooth
Some fractures are visible, while others can be hidden under the gumline or inside the tooth. Warning signs include:
Sharp or throbbing pain when chewing
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
Swollen gums near the affected tooth
Discomfort that comes and goes
A visible crack or broken section
Even minor discomfort should be evaluated by a dental professional. What feels like a small chip could be a symptom of deeper damage.
Immediate First Aid for a Fractured Tooth
If you’ve experienced a dental injury and suspect a fracture, take these first aid steps before visiting an emergency dentist:
1. Rinse Your Mouth
Gently rinse with warm water to clean the area and remove debris.
2. Stop the Bleeding
If bleeding is present, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth.
3. Reduce Swelling
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 1015 minutes at a time.
4. Avoid Using the Tooth
Do not bite or chew with the injured side of your mouth.
5. Save Broken Pieces
If any part of the tooth has broken off, store it in milk or saline and bring it with you to the clinic. In some cases, it may be reattached.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
Not all fractured teeth hurt immediately, but that doesn’t mean the damage is minor. You should seek emergency dental treatment at McLevin Dental Clinic if:
Pain is persistent or worsening
A large portion of the tooth is missing
Theres bleeding from the gums or socket
You notice swelling or pus near the injury
Youve lost a crown or dental restoration
A tooth is loose or displaced
Time is critical. Fast intervention increases the chances of saving the tooth and preventing infection.
How McLevin Dental Treats Fractured Teeth
Our Scarborough emergency dental team is equipped to diagnose and treat fractured teeth based on the location and severity of the damage. Common treatment options include:
Dental bonding: For minor chips or cracks using composite resin
Dental crowns: To cover and protect a severely damaged tooth
Root canal therapy: If the fracture exposes or infects the pulp
Tooth extraction: For irreparable fractures that compromise the tooths structure
Dental implants or bridges: To replace teeth that cannot be saved
We offer same-day emergency appointments and digital X-rays for accurate assessment and faster treatment planning.
Complications of Untreated Tooth Fractures
Ignoring a fractured tooth can lead to serious consequences, including:
Tooth decay entering through the crack
Pulp infection or abscess
Tooth discoloration and loss
Damage to adjacent teeth or gums
Costlier treatment down the line
Immediate care reduces pain, preserves tooth structure, and restores your bite.
Preventing Future Tooth Fractures
While some accidents are unavoidable, you can minimize your risk by following these protective steps:
Wear a custom sports mouthguard during physical activity
Avoid chewing on hard items like ice, hard candy, or pens
Dont use your teeth to open packages
Treat teeth grinding or bruxism with a nightguard
Schedule regular dental checkups at McLevin Dental Clinic
Preventive care helps detect weak or compromised teeth early before an accident causes more severe damage.
Why Choose McLevin Dental Clinic for Emergency Dental Care?
Located in Scarborough, McLevin Dental Clinic offers expert emergency dental services for fractured teeth, knocked-out teeth, and oral trauma. Our skilled team uses the latest techniques to save damaged teeth, alleviate pain, and protect your smile. Whether it’s bonding, crowns, or surgical intervention, youll receive personalized care with quick response times.
Final Thoughts
Dental accidents happen but acting fast can save your tooth and your smile. If you or a loved one experiences a fractured tooth, follow the emergency steps above and contact McLevin Dental Clinic immediately. Our Scarborough dental team is ready to provide the fast, professional care you need to recover and restore your oral health.