The broken tooth will not always be apparent at first, but if neglected, extremely serious dental problems will result. From biting something hard to a fall or teeth grinding, it is best to know how to act quickly in order to maintain your oral well-being.
If you require guidance, your initial move must be to see a dentist in South Edmonton for a professional assessment. Damaged teeth exist in different strengths, and early professional intervention removes pain and avoids complications.
What Often Leads to A Cracked Tooth?
Teeth are strong, but they’re not invincible. Here are a few everyday reasons a tooth might crack:
- Eating hard items like ice cubes or crunchy snacks
- Facial trauma from sports or accidents
- Jaw clenching during sleep
- Old or weakened dental fillings
- Sudden temperature changes (e.g., hot coffee followed by cold water)
Understanding these causes helps reduce your risk and reinforces the need for preventative care.
Signs of A Cracked Tooth
Cracks in a tooth aren’t always visible. You might experience discomfort before you even notice physical signs. Be aware of the following symptoms:
- Intermittent pain when chewing or biting
- Teeth reacting to temperature or sweetness
- Puffy or swollen gums around the sore tooth
- Sharp pain that comes and goes
- Feeling that something is “off” when you bite down
Recognizing the warnings of a cracked tooth early can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment.
When to See A Dentist For A Cracked Tooth
Any pain, visible crack, or sensitivity in your teeth is a reason to visit a dental professional. Don’t wait until the discomfort becomes unbearable.
You should see a dentist for a cracked tooth if:
- Biting causes more pain
- A crack is visible on the tooth surface
- The tooth has become sensitive to temperature changes
- There is swelling or discomfort in the surrounding gums
Early evaluation allows your dentist near you to determine the extent of the damage and recommend a treatment that preserves your tooth structure.
Immediate Actions for A Cracked Tooth
Here are immediate steps to follow before your dental visit:
- Gently rinse with warm water to keep the area clean
- Use a cold pack to ease swelling
- Try not to bite or chew on the injured side
- Use pain medicine from a pharmacy if necessary
- Keep any broken pieces of the tooth and bring them to the dental visit
Following these steps ensures your tooth remains as stable as possible until it can be professionally assessed.
Cracked Tooth Emergency Care
If the crack is deep or painful, it may require cracked tooth emergency treatment. Don’t delay contacting a dental clinic, severe cracks can expose the inner pulp, increasing the risk of infection or even tooth loss.
Emergency care may involve:
- Pain management and stabilizing the tooth
- Diagnostic X-rays
- Temporary protective restoration until permanent treatment is scheduled
Seeking immediate care not only relieves pain but also protects the rest of your mouth from infection or misalignment due to tooth instability.
Cracked Tooth Treatment Options
Treatment depends on how extensive the crack is. Here are some cracked tooth care options your dentist may consider:
- Bonding: Ideal for small cracks; composite resin fills the damaged area
- Dental crowns: Protect and strengthen the tooth if a large portion is damaged
- Root canal therapy: It is required when the crack reaches the pulp
- Tooth Removal: When the crack is too deep to repair
Your dentist will evaluate the tooth using imaging and clinical assessment to determine the most effective option.
How to Treat A Cracked Tooth At Home Temporarily
While professional care is essential, you can take steps to manage symptoms before your appointment.
- Stay away from tough or sticky foods
- Gargle with saltwater to stop infection
- Use dental wax (available at pharmacies) to cover sharp edges
- Maintain good oral hygiene without brushing too hard near the area
Keep in mind, these fixes are not permanent. Only a licensed dental professional can provide long-term care.
Preventing Future Dental Issues
Once you’ve experienced a cracked tooth, prevention becomes even more important. Tips to avoid future damage include:
- Wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth
- Not chewing on ice or tough foods
- Using a sports mouthguard during physical activity
- Not using your teeth to open packages
- Visiting your dentist regularly for early diagnosis
Consistent dental check-ups play a major role in preventing cracks from going unnoticed.
Get Professional Help Before It Gets Worse – Landmark Dental!
A cracked tooth doesn’t always start with intense pain; left untreated, it can become a serious dental emergency. Recognizing the symptoms and acting quickly by seeing a qualified dental professional can help preserve your natural tooth and prevent further complications. Book your appointment with Landmark Dental today to get expert help and confidently restore your smile.