A cracked or broken tooth is not just uncomfortableit can quickly escalate into a dental emergency if left untreated. At McLevin Dental Clinic, we understand how alarming this situation can be. Whether the damage occurred due to a fall, biting down on something hard, or an old filling giving way, immediate attention can make all the difference in preserving your tooth and oral health.
In this blog, well explain how to recognize a cracked or broken tooth, what steps to take right away, and how a dentist can help repair the damage. This guide is designed to provide practical, timely advice for anyone searching for what to do when a tooth breaks, cracks, or chips unexpectedly.
Common Causes of Cracked or Broken Teeth
A tooth can crack or break due to various reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
Biting down on hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy
Trauma to the face or mouth from sports injuries, falls, or accidents
Teeth grinding (bruxism), especially during sleep
Large fillings that weaken the tooth structure over time
Sudden temperature changes in the mouth (e.g., eating something hot then drinking something cold)
Understanding the root cause of the issue can help in both short-term treatment and long-term prevention.
Signs You May Have a Cracked or Broken Tooth
The symptoms of a cracked tooth vary depending on the type and severity of the damage. In some cases, cracks may not be visible but still cause significant discomfort. Look out for:
Sudden or sharp pain when chewing
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages
Pain that comes and goes, especially when biting or releasing pressure
Visible lines or chips in the enamel
Swelling around the affected area
If youre experiencing any of these signs, its time to seek professional dental care immediately.
Immediate Steps to Take After Cracking or Breaking a Tooth
If you suspect that youve cracked or broken a tooth, taking the right first aid measures can prevent further damage and reduce your discomfort before seeing a dentist.
1. Rinse Your Mouth
Use warm water to gently rinse your mouth. This helps clean the area and remove debris.
2. Stop Any Bleeding
If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth until it stops.
3. Manage Swelling and Pain
Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help with pain and inflammation.
4. Save the Tooth Fragment (If Any)
If part of the tooth has broken off, place it in a clean container with milk or saliva. Bring it with you to your dental appointmentit may be reattached or used in the restoration process.
5. Avoid Eating on the Affected Side
Chewing on a broken tooth can worsen the damage. Stick to soft foods and avoid extremes in temperature.
Why You Should See a Dentist Promptly
Even if youre not in pain, a cracked or chipped tooth should never be ignored. Cracks can allow bacteria to enter the inner layers of the tooth, leading to infection or even tooth loss if left untreated.
At McLevin Dental Clinic in Scarborough, we offer emergency dental services tailored to address issues like broken or cracked teeth with urgency and care. Early treatment increases the chances of saving the tooth and minimizes long-term complications.
Professional Treatment Options for Cracked or Broken Teeth
Depending on the severity of the damage, your dentist may recommend one of the following restorative treatments:
1. Dental Bonding or Filling
For small chips or surface-level cracks, tooth-colored composite resin can be used to rebuild the shape and function of the tooth.
2. Dental Crown
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the damaged tooth to restore strength, shape, and appearance. Its ideal for more extensive damage that weakens the tooth structure.
3. Root Canal Therapy
If the crack has extended into the pulp (the inner tissue of the tooth), a root canal may be necessary to remove infection and save the tooth.
4. Tooth Extraction
In cases where the tooth is severely fractured and cannot be restored, extraction may be the only option. Replacement solutions like dental implants or bridges can then be considered.
How to Prevent Cracked and Broken Teeth
Preventing dental injuries starts with a proactive approach to oral care:
Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy
Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities
If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a night guard
Maintain routine dental checkups to catch small issues before they become major problems
Be cautious with foods that are very hot, cold, or tough
Trust McLevin Dental for Emergency Tooth Care
A cracked or broken tooth can be stressful, but acting quickly can lead to a much better outcome. At McLevin Dental Clinic, we offer prompt, compassionate care for all types of dental emergencies in Scarborough. Our experienced team uses advanced techniques to restore your smile with comfort and precision.