Cracked a Tooth? Here's What to Do

Even though teeth are remarkably strong, it is still possible for them to crack or break under pressure. Situations such as biting down on hard objects or receiving a blow to the mouth can weaken the structure of the tooth and result in a fracture. Unfortunately, anyone who has had a cracked tooth knows how painful it can be. Even tiny cracks in the enamel can cause potential problems down the line.

So what causes a tooth to crack, and how does a dentist fix a cracked tooth? As one of the most trusted clinics in Dallas and Houston, TX, MINT dentistry can provide effective treatment options for a cracked tooth. Learn more about emergency dental care by speaking with a team member at our office. Our dental professionals can guide you through the steps you need to take if this scenario occurs at home.

Call an emergency dentist

There are several signs of having a cracked tooth. Usually, patients experience pain when chewing or biting down. Cracked teeth also show great sensitivity to heat or cold. When looking at the surface of the tooth, you may see discoloration or a light brown line running through it. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to take action as soon as possible. Below, you can read information and guidelines about what to do in the event of a cracked tooth.

Suddenly breaking a tooth can be an alarming experience. When cracked teeth are left untreated for too long, patients are vulnerable to oral disease and infection. If you find yourself in a situation that results in dental damage, call an experienced emergency dentist. MINT dentistry will set you up with an appointment to address your discomfort and provide solutions quickly. Based on the condition of your teeth and overall oral health, we can discuss your best treatment options.

What causes a tooth to crack?

So what causes a tooth to crack? Contact sports are one of the most common ways patients damage their teeth today. This includes everything from football to soccer. Even sports that are supposedly noncontact come with some risk of tripping, falling, or colliding with another player. This is why MINT dentistry suggests getting a helmet and fitted mouth guard whenever you play sports among friends or teammates.

Patients should be aware that the teeth are only designed for chewing food. If you use your teeth as scissors or bottle openers, this can cause serious damage to your teeth and jaw. To avoid getting a cracked tooth, do not put nonfood objects in your mouth. MINT dentistry also recommends avoiding biting down on ice or hard candy. Getting adequate dental care and practicing good oral hygiene are other great ways to keep your teeth strong for years to come.

What to do in a dental emergency

Emergency dental care should always be taken seriously, even if the injury seems minimal. Immediately after cracking a tooth, patients should rinse their mouth with lukewarm water to keep the area clean. If the trauma causes bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the area with a clean towel or gauze. For excessive bleeding that does not stop, dial 9-1-1 or go to the closest emergency room. Your injuries may be more severe than simply having a cracked tooth.

Call MINT dentistry in Houston and Dallas, TX for your next steps. An emergency dentist will give you instructions based on the extent of the damage and symptoms. For example, a cold compress can help alleviate pain and reduce swelling in the injured area. This is because the cold temperature constricts blood vessels and slows down blood flow. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also ease discomfort before coming in for an appointment.

How does a dentist fix a cracked tooth?

Based on the severity of the damage, an emergency dentist may repair the tooth in a single visit or in multiple sessions. So how does a dentist fix a cracked tooth? MINT dentistry will carefully examine the area and make suggestions to address the damage and bring your smile back to perfect health. Your dentist may repair the damage by applying a filling or tooth-colored composite resin. Dental veneers also cover the surface of the existing tooth to make it look healthy and flawless. For patients who lose a portion of the tooth, your dentist may protect the remaining part with a crown. This works to preserve function and improve aesthetic appearance.

Get emergency dental care

A tooth that has been chipped, broken, or knocked out needs to be treated by an emergency dentist in Dallas and Houston, TX. Following a dental injury, the most important thing is to keep calm and get in touch with MINT dentistry. Even the smallest fractures can severely weaken your tooth and cause further damage. To learn more about what we can do for you, reach out to our staff today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you.