Cracked Tooth? Here’s What You Should Do Next

A cracked tooth can happen to anyone and can range from minor chips to severe fractures that affect the structure and health of the tooth. Whether caused by biting down on something hard, an injury, or general wear and tear, it’s important to know what steps to take when you experience a cracked tooth.

This guide will walk you through the essential steps, treatment options, and preventive measures to protect your dental health.

Understanding Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth refer to various types of fractures that affect the outer surface (enamel) or deeper layers of the tooth. Cracks can be superficial or extend into the tooth’s root, causing pain, discomfort, and potential complications. There are different types of tooth cracks, including:

Craze lines: Small, shallow cracks in the enamel that are typically painless and do not require treatment.
Fractured cusp: A crack that affects a portion of the chewing surface but does not extend to the root.
Cracked tooth: A crack that extends vertically toward the gum line and, in severe cases, affects the tooth’s pulp.
Split tooth: A tooth that has split into two parts due to a deep crack.
Vertical root fracture: A crack that starts in the root and extends toward the crown, often leading to tooth extraction.

Now that we understand the types of cracks, let’s discuss what you should do next if you have a cracked tooth.

Step 1: Assess the Damage

The first step when you suspect a cracked tooth is to assess the damage. Symptoms of a cracked tooth may include:

Sharp pain when biting or chewing
Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
Swelling or irritation of the gums around the tooth
Pain that comes and goes

If the crack is visible, examine it to determine its size and location. Minor chips or superficial cracks may not require immediate treatment, but deeper cracks could cause significant pain and damage if left untreated. In some cases, the tooth may look intact, but pain or sensitivity suggests a deeper issue.

Step 2: Rinse Your Mouth

After assessing the damage, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the affected area and reduce the risk of infection. This step is especially important if the crack has exposed the pulp or root of the tooth, as bacteria can enter and lead to infection. Additionally, if there is any bleeding, rinse gently to avoid aggravating the injured area.

Step 3: Manage Pain and Swelling

For temporary relief, you can manage pain and swelling with over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your mouth near the affected area can also help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. Avoid chewing on the cracked tooth and stick to soft foods until you can see a dentist.

If the pain is severe or the tooth is visibly fractured, it’s essential to seek emergency dental care to prevent further complications.

Step 4: Call Your Dentist

No matter the severity of the cracked tooth, the next step is to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Even minor cracks can worsen over time and lead to infections or tooth loss if not treated promptly. Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination using X-rays and other diagnostic tools to assess the extent of the damage.

Here’s what your dentist may recommend depending on the type and severity of the crack:

Minor Cracks (Craze Lines)

If you have a superficial crack or craze lines that only affect the outer enamel, your dentist may not recommend any immediate treatment. However, they may suggest cosmetic treatments such as:

Polishing or smoothing the rough edges
Dental bonding, where a tooth-colored resin is applied to cover the crack
Veneers, which are thin layers of porcelain or composite that cover the front surface of the tooth for aesthetic purposes

Moderate Cracks (Fractured Cusp or Cracked Tooth)

For deeper cracks that extend into the tooth’s structure but do not affect the pulp, your dentist may recommend the following treatments:

Dental bonding: For minor-to-moderate cracks, bonding can fill the crack and restore the tooth’s function.
Dental crown: If a large portion of the tooth is damaged, your dentist may place a crown (cap) over the tooth to protect it from further damage. Crowns are made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal and can last for many years.
Root canal: If the crack has reached the tooth’s pulp, your dentist may perform a root canal to remove the infected pulp and prevent further damage. After the root canal, a crown is typically placed to protect the tooth.

Severe Cracks (Split Tooth or Vertical Root Fracture)

In cases where the crack is severe, such as a split tooth or vertical root fracture, tooth extraction may be necessary. Your dentist will discuss options for replacing the tooth, such as:

Dental implants: A titanium post is surgically implanted into the jawbone, and a crown is placed on top to create a natural-looking and functioning replacement tooth.
Bridges: A bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the adjacent healthy teeth.
Dentures: For patients with multiple missing teeth, partial or full dentures may be recommended.

Step 5: Follow Post-Treatment Care

After treatment for a cracked tooth, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for post-treatment care. This may include:

Avoiding hard or chewy foods that could further damage the tooth
Practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing regularly
Attending regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your teeth

If you’ve had a crown or filling placed, your dentist will check to ensure it fits properly and remains in good condition. Dental restorations typically last for many years with proper care.

Preventing Cracked Teeth

While not all cracked tooth incidents can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:

Avoid chewing hard foods: Biting down on ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy can cause cracks or chips.
Wear a mouthguard: If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, a custom-fitted mouthguard can protect your teeth from fractures.
Be cautious with dental work: If you have existing dental restorations like fillings or crowns, be mindful of chewing habits and see your dentist regularly to check for wear and tear.
Maintain good oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing daily can help keep your teeth strong and healthy, reducing the risk of cracks.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or swelling after a tooth crack, seek emergency dental care immediately. Delaying treatment can lead to complications such as infection, abscess formation, and permanent tooth loss.

Conclusion

A cracked tooth is a common dental issue, but it’s essential to act quickly to prevent further damage. By assessing the severity, seeking timely dental care, and following post-treatment guidelines, you can protect your oral health and prevent complications. Remember to practice preventive measures to keep your teeth strong and reduce the risk of future cracks.