Chipped or Cracked Tooth? Here’s What to Do Before It Gets Worse
Cracked or Fractured Teeth Require Prompt Attention
You’re walking along, minding your own business, when all of a sudden, a ball gets thrown your direction and bops you in the face. But it’s not a gentle bop. No, this bop did something. You felt it do something. And when you reach up to your face and into your mouth, you discover that you have a fractured or cracked tooth.
Now what? This isn’t exactly something you wanted to be dealing with today. Or ever. But it happened. Call the dentist? That seems like the right course of action.
And in this article, we’ll tell you what happens now.
Quick Answer: What to Do Before a Chipped or Cracked Tooth Gets Worse
For a chipped or cracked tooth, contact your dentist as soon as possible. Even minor damage can worsen if left untreated. Small chips may be repaired with dental bonding or reshaping, while larger breaks may need a veneer or crown. If a crack reaches the inner part of the tooth, treatment may involve a root canal or, in severe cases, tooth removal.
How Chipped and Cracked Teeth Happen
Obviously, getting bopped in the face with a ball can do some dental damage. But that’s not the only cause. Here are some of the most common scenarios that can result in a chipped or cracked tooth:
- Biting down on hard foods such as ice, nuts, or unpopped popcorn kernels
- Teeth grinding or clenching, also known as bruxism
- Facial injuries related to sports, falls, or other accidents
- Older fillings that no longer fully support the tooth
- Enamel wear caused by age, acidic foods and drinks, or untreated dental problems
No matter the cause, a damaged tooth should always be evaluated by a dentist before the problem gets worse.
Warning Signs to Watch For
The thing is, not all chips, or cracks appear obvious upfront. You may find out you’ve had a chipped or cracked tooth for some time before it actually becomes a problem for you. That said, knowing what to look for can help.
Here are some signs that you’ve got a dental problem on your hands.
- Sensitivity when eating or drinking something hot or cold
- Pain or discomfort when biting down or chewing
- A tooth that feels sharp, rough, or different than it used to
- Intermittent tooth pain that seems to come and go
- Swelling or tenderness around the affected tooth
- A visible chip, crack, or missing piece of the tooth
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to schedule a dental appointment before the damage can progress.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
We won’t beat around the bush. If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, you shouldn’t wait to have it addressed. Waiting can actually lead to bigger issues down the road. And at the top of the list of potential problems? An infection. Cracks and chips can leave your roots exposed, and that’s not something you want to happen. Further, untreated chips can affect your nearby teeth, creating uneven wear, which can also cause problems for you later.
The message is simple. The sooner you address chips and cracks in your teeth, the better. Plus, getting these issues treated isn’t overly complicated. Your dentist near Lake Hefner will be able to assess the situation quickly and suggest the best possible treatment to protect your tooth and your smile for the long haul.
Treatment Options for a Chipped or Cracked Tooth
So, what are your treatment options? We’re glad you asked. The answer depends on the size, location, and severity of the damage. The nice thing is that you do not have to figure that out on your own. Your dentist will evaluate the tooth, explain what’s happening, and help you choose the treatment that makes the most sense for your smile.
- Small chips may be repaired with dental bonding or minor reshaping to restore the tooth’s appearance and function.
- Moderate damage may require a veneer or dental crown to strengthen the tooth while improving its appearance.
- Deep cracks that reach the inner portion of the tooth may need root canal therapy. In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be recommended.
A Chipped or Cracked Tooth Deserves Prompt Professional Dental Attention
Don’t leave a chipped or cracked tooth to fester. Remember, this isn’t just a cosmetic issue. Without proper attention, the situation can and will probably get worse.
Please know that a chipped or cracked tooth is one of the most common dental problems we see, and prompt treatment can make a big difference. Taking action early may mean the difference between a simple repair and a more involved procedure. In some cases, treatment may be as straightforward as bonding, while others may require a dental crown to protect and restore the tooth.
The sooner you have the tooth evaluated, the more treatment options may be available. Contact Lake Pointe Dental Group today to schedule an evaluation and help protect your smile from further damage.
