What to Do If Your Tooth is Cracked

Dealing with a cracked tooth can be a concerning and even painful experience. A tooth crack, also known as a tooth fracture, can occur for various reasons, such as biting down on hard foods, teeth grinding, or trauma to the mouth. It's important to address a cracked tooth promptly to prevent further damage and potential complications.

Causes of Tooth Cracks

Tooth cracks can happen for several reasons, including:

1. Chewing on hard foods: Biting down on hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can put excessive pressure on the teeth, leading to cracks.
2. Teeth grinding or clenching: Also known as bruxism, this habitual grinding or clenching of teeth can wear down and crack the tooth enamel over time.
3. Trauma to the mouth: A direct blow to the mouth, such as from an accident or sports injury, can cause a tooth to crack.
4. Existing dental work: Older fillings, crowns, or other dental restorations can weaken the tooth structure and make it more susceptible to cracking.
5. Tooth decay: Extensive tooth decay can compromise the structural integrity of the tooth, increasing the risk of cracking.

Signs of a Cracked Tooth

Identifying a cracked tooth can be challenging, as the crack may not always be visible to the naked eye. Some common signs of a cracked tooth include:

1. Sensitivity to hot or cold: When the crack extends into the inner layers of the tooth, it can cause sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
2. Pain when chewing: Chewing or biting down on the affected tooth may cause sharp, sudden pain.
3. Swelling or inflammation of the gums: The crack may allow bacteria to enter the tooth, leading to inflammation and swelling of the surrounding gum tissue.
4. Visible crack: In some cases, you may be able to see a visible crack in the tooth.
   

    

   

What to Do If You Have a Cracked Tooth

If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, it's essential to seek immediate dental care. Here's what you should do:

1. Contact your dental office: Call your dentist's office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. Explain the symptoms you're experiencing, and they can assess the severity of the crack and provide appropriate treatment.

2. Avoid chewing on the affected tooth: Until you can see a dentist, try to avoid chewing on the cracked tooth, as this can worsen the damage and cause further pain.

3. Take over-the-counter pain medication: If you're experiencing discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to help alleviate the pain.

4. Apply a cold compress: If the area is swollen or tender, applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.

5. Use dental wax or temporary filling material: If the crack is visible and the tooth feels sharp or rough, you can use dental wax or temporary filling material (available at most pharmacies) to smooth the area and prevent it from cutting your tongue or cheek.

Treatment for a Cracked Tooth

The treatment for a cracked tooth will depend on the severity and location of the crack. Your dentist may recommend one or more of the following options:

1. Dental fillings: For minor cracks that do not extend deep into the tooth, a dental filling may be used to seal and stabilize the affected area.

2. Dental crowns: If the crack is more extensive, your dentist may recommend a dental crown to cover and protect the entire tooth.

3. Root canal therapy: If the crack extends into the inner layers of the tooth, causing damage to the pulp (the soft inner tissue), a root canal may be necessary to remove the affected pulp and prevent further infection.

4. Tooth extraction: In some cases, if the crack is too severe or the tooth cannot be saved, your dentist may recommend extracting the tooth and replacing it with a dental implant or bridge.

Preventing Future Tooth Cracks

Once you have addressed the immediate issue of a cracked tooth, there are several steps you can take to help prevent future cracks:

1. Practice good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

2. Wear a mouthguard: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, wear a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth from damage.

3. Avoid chewing on hard foods: Be mindful of the foods you consume and try to avoid biting down on hard, crunchy, or sticky items that could crack your teeth.

4. Seek regular dental check-ups: Regular visits to your dentist for cleanings and examinations can help detect potential issues, such as cracks or other structural problems, before they become more serious.

Addressing a cracked tooth promptly is crucial to prevent further damage and potential complications. By following the steps outlined above and working closely with your dentist, you can manage the immediate issue and take proactive measures to protect the long-term health of your teeth.