Ten steps to take if you have a cracked tooth

You’re enjoying a meal or maybe just going about your day, and suddenly, you feel it – a sharp pain as you bite down. It might be a cracked tooth, and while it can be a distressing situation, there’s no need to panic. With the right steps, you can navigate this dental dilemma and ensure your smile stays intact. Here’s what to do if you find yourself with a cracked tooth:

1. Assess the Severity

The first thing to do is assess the severity of the crack. Not all cracks are created equal. Some may be superficial and cause minimal discomfort, while others might be deeper and more painful. If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, or bleeding from the cracked tooth, it’s best to seek professional dental help immediately.

2. Rinse Your Mouth

After assessing the situation, rinse your mouth gently with warm water. This can help clean the area and soothe any discomfort. If there are any food particles stuck around the cracked tooth, rinsing can help dislodge them and prevent further irritation.

3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation caused by a cracked tooth. Remember to follow the recommended dosage and instructions on the medication’s label. However, pain relief is just a short-term solution – you’ll still need to address the underlying issue.

4. Protect the Cracked Tooth

If the crack is visible and you’re unable to see a dentist immediately, consider using dental wax or a sugarless chewing gum to cover the jagged edges of the cracked tooth. This can prevent the crack from getting worse and protect your tongue and cheeks from irritation.

5. Avoid Certain Foods

While waiting for professional dental care, it’s a good idea to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can worsen the crack or cause additional discomfort. Stick to soft foods that won’t put extra pressure on the damaged tooth.

6. Dental Cement

In some cases, you can find dental cement at your local pharmacy. This temporary fix can help hold the cracked tooth together until you can see a dentist. However, keep in mind that dental cement is not a substitute for professional treatment – it’s just a way to manage the situation until you can get proper care.

7. Seek Dental Care

This step is non-negotiable. As soon as you can, schedule an appointment with your dentist to address the cracked tooth. The severity and location of the crack will determine the appropriate treatment. It might involve dental bonding, a crown, a root canal, or even extraction in extreme cases.

8. Preventive Measures for the Future

Once your cracked tooth is taken care of, it’s essential to learn from the experience and take preventive measures to avoid a repeat. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or popcorn kernels. If you’re an avid athlete, consider wearing a mouthguard during physical activities to protect your teeth from potential trauma.

In Conclusion: Act Swiftly and Wisely

Dealing with a cracked tooth can be unnerving, but remember that with prompt action and the guidance of a dental professional, you can restore your dental health. It’s crucial to seek help as soon as possible to prevent the crack from worsening and causing more significant issues down the road. And while you’re waiting for your appointment, practice good oral hygiene and be gentle with your damaged tooth to minimize discomfort.

Ultimately, your smile is worth the effort, and addressing a cracked tooth promptly is an investment in your oral well-being. So, keep calm, follow these steps, and look forward to a healthy smile once again!