Chipped, Cracked or Fractured Teeth
If a tooth is chipped and doesn’t hurt, this usually is not a dental emergency and you can wait a few days to see a dentist. It is important to be careful while chewing so as not to chip it more. We may simply be able to smooth the chip out, or add some composite filling material to repair the tooth.
However, a cracked or fractured tooth can be a dental emergency in certain instances. A fractured or crack can cause damage to the inside of the tooth as well as to the outside. Severe fractures are so extreme that the tooth cannot be saved. If you suffer a fractured tooth, call us immediately for an emergency appointment and follow these steps:
If the tooth cannot be saved, we will inform you of the various alternatives for replacing missing teeth, such as implant-supported restorations and bridges.
If a tooth is chipped and doesn’t hurt, this usually is not a dental emergency and you can wait a few days to see a dentist. It is important to be careful while chewing so as not to chip it more. We may simply be able to smooth the chip out, or add some composite filling material to repair the tooth.
However, a cracked or fractured tooth can be a dental emergency in certain instances. A fractured or crack can cause damage to the inside of the tooth as well as to the outside. Severe fractures are so extreme that the tooth cannot be saved. If you suffer a fractured tooth, call us immediately for an emergency appointment and follow these steps:
- Clean your mouth out by gently rinsing thoroughly with warm water.
- If the fracture is caused by facial trauma, apply a cold compress to the area to minimize any swelling.
- Take acetaminophen (not aspirin) according to the packaging directions to alleviate pain.
- Never apply a painkiller to the gum because it can burn the gum tissue. This includes Orajel, which often is marketed for these types of procedures.
- An X-ray will be needed in order for your dentist to properly diagnose the condition of your tooth. If the soft tissue inside of the tooth (the tooth pulp) is damaged, your tooth may need a root canal. If the pulp is not damaged, the tooth might only need a crown.
If the tooth cannot be saved, we will inform you of the various alternatives for replacing missing teeth, such as implant-supported restorations and bridges.
