We all treasure our teeth, and for good reason. Whether you are meeting someone for the first time or smiling for family photos that will be cherished for years to come, your smile is on full display. So when a crack happens, it can be truly scary, and painful too. In this blog post, we’ll talk about what to do if you crack a tooth.
What To Expect
If you find yourself with a cracked or chipped tooth, you’re not alone. Cracked teeth are a very common occurrence, and as a result, dentists have learned to handle them with efficiency and care. If you do crack a tooth, you may experience pain and sensitivity, especially when the area is exposed to food or drink. In most cases, these unpleasant sensations occur because you’ve broken the enamel and dentin, exposing the tooth’s pulp, where the nerves and blood vessels are housed.
How to React
If you crack your tooth, don’t panic! We’re here to help. First, if you can, salvage the piece that’s broken off. Bring that with you when you see your dentist, as they may be able to reattach the fragment. If you’re bleeding, rinse out the mouth with warm salt water and use gauze to control the flow of blood. Call your dentist as soon as you can. Though a cracked tooth isn’t an emergency, per se, you’ll want to get into the office to have it fixed as soon as possible.
Treatment for a Cracked Tooth
Treatment for a broken tooth will vary depending on the type and severity of the crack. Whether or not the tooth or fragment can be salvaged, there’s always a solution that will leave you with a smile that’s as good as new. With a relatively minor break, depending on where it occurs, your dentist may choose to use a filling or bonding to remedy the situation.
If a larger piece of the tooth has been lost, especially if it’s not visible when you smile, your dentist may opt for a dental cap or crown. Dental veneers are also an option, particularly it’s one of your front teeth has broken. In some instances, if the pulp has been exposed and damaged, a root canal may be required.
Be Proactive
Although a cracked tooth isn’t entirely avoidable, there are things you can do to try to keep your teeth in one piece. Don’t chew hard foods like ice or hard candy, try to kick your teeth-grinding habit, and never use your teeth as a tool to open packaging or rip off a tag, for example.
The healthier your teeth are, the stronger they will be, so make sure you keep up with your bi-annual appointments here at Smiles Dental!
Discover the Smiles Dental difference today!
Are you ready for the happy, healthy smile of your dreams? When you choose Smiles Dental Services, you’re putting your smile in the hands of highly-trained professionals you can trust. Above all, we provide our patients with leading-edge dentistry that goes above and beyond to deliver high-quality results with a gentle, personal touch.