From sports-related incidents to chewing on something that’s too hard, there are several circumstances that can lead to a fractured tooth. Discovering a cracked tooth can be upsetting, but you needn’t worry. From contacting a cosmetic dentistry professional to relieving pain, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent further damage and support a healthy recovery. 

What to Do When You’ve Cracked a Tooth

1. Call a Dentist

Your first order of business after cracking a tooth is to call a dentist near you. Ideally, you should seek out someone who practices cosmetic dentistry, as these professionals are experienced in handling chips, fractures, and other smile imperfections. Depending on the severity of your fracture, they may advise coming in for the soonest available appointment. While severe breaks should be addressed within 24 hours, minor surface cracks and chips can be addressed by cosmetic dentistry experts a little later.

2. Clean the Area & Alleviate Pain

If the crack is significant, rinse your mouth out with warm, salty water to get rid of any debris. Should you notice any bleeding, apply gauze to the affected area. If you don’t have any gauze on hand, a wet tea bag can also be used in its place. To address discomfort, take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

3. Be Cautious

No matter how minor the damage is, a cracked tooth is vulnerable to further breaks. It may also be sensitive to extreme temperatures, as the crack could extend past the enamel and into the sensitive dentin beneath it. Avoid any hard foods, and try to chew on the opposite side of where the cracked tooth is located. You may find it wise to skip any hot and cold foods or beverages until the tooth has been restored.

As a trusted dental office in Baldwin County, AL, Samuel Townsley Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers restorative and cosmetic dentistry services to help you regain a healthy, natural-looking smile after any dental issues arise. Their team has been serving the community for more than 25 years, and Dr. Townsley is a member of both the American Dental Association and the American Academy of General Dentistry. Explore their full list of services online or call (251) 943-1521 to schedule an appointment.