What to Do With a Cracked Tooth

The first question that many ask after suffering a cracked tooth is, “What do I do now?” This is because cracked teeth rarely occur when we are prepared and ready, and it can leave you in a vulnerable position, not knowing what to do. This review aims to answer this question and provide insight on how to properly handle a cracked tooth. 

How to handle a cracked tooth properly

Properly treating a cracked tooth as soon as it occurs can minimize the initial symptoms and long-term damage and make the treatment process less invasive and more affordable. Each instance of a cracked tooth is unique, but in general, it is encouraged to minimize the initial symptoms, visit the dentist promptly and take precautions to avoid further damage. 

Assess the severity of the crack

Not every instance of a cracked tooth requires emergency dental treatment. In many instances, the patient can manage the initial symptoms in the comfort of their home. However, if the tooth is severely cracked and causes any of the following concerns, then an emergency trip to the dentist is likely necessary:

• Severe pain and sensitivity
• Uncontrollable bleeding
• Gum swelling that does not improve
• Cracks that extend toward the root

If you have questions, then consider calling the dentist to explain the symptoms and see if a visit for fast treatment is necessary. 

Treat the initial symptoms

If the cracked tooth is not severe and the initial symptoms are tolerable and do not threaten the long-term health of the tooth, then the patient can treat the initial symptoms at home in the following ways:

• Practice good oral hygiene
• Avoid eating sugar
• Drink water often
• Take pain relief medication
• Apply a cold compress

Brushing the mouth gently and flossing regularly can reduce the risk of additional oral health concerns. Taking over-the-counter pain reliever can help manage the pain and swelling, if any exists. This is not a substitute for visiting the dentist, and scheduling an appointment right away is essential. 

Visit the dentist for treatment

If the symptoms are minor, the dentist visit can wait a few days, whereas a severely cracked tooth may require emergency treatment. In any case, making a dentist appointment for cracked tooth treatment is essential. The dentist will likely recommend either bonding, a veneer or a dental crown to repair the tooth. Extensive treatment may be necessary for more severe cracks. 

Prevent further damage

Of course, the best way to deal with a cracked tooth is to prevent it from occurring. While this is not always possible, the dentist will likely recommend ways to minimize the risk of suffering a cracked tooth. This may include wearing a mouthguard during sports, treatment for nighttime teeth grinding and avoiding consumption of ice and hard foods. 

Talk to a dentist about cracked tooth treatment

We help our patients through every step of the cracked tooth treatment process. Contact us today if you would like more information on how we can help and to arrange a time to see us for cracked tooth treatment.

Are you considering cracked tooth treatment in the Peabody area? Get more information at https://www.northside-dentalcare.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Emergency Dental Care in Peabody, MA.