Nothing ruins a day faster than a sharp, throbbing pain in your tooth. One minute, you’re enjoying your favorite meal, and the next—crack! That sudden jolt of discomfort is enough to stop you in your tracks. A cracked tooth isn’t just painful; it’s a ticking time bomb for bigger dental issues. Ignoring it could lead to infection, abscesses, or even tooth loss. The sooner you act, the better your chances of saving your tooth and avoiding more complicated procedures.

So, what’s next? Does a cracked tooth need dental emergency care? How fast should you seek care? Let’s break it all down.

How Do You Know If Your Tooth Is Cracked?

Sometimes, a cracked tooth is obvious—you feel a sharp edge or see a visible break. Other times, the symptoms are sneaky, leaving you in discomfort without a clear cause. Here’s what to watch for:

• Pain when chewing – If biting down sends a sharp jolt through your tooth, it might be cracked.
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets – If your tooth suddenly protests against ice cream or hot coffee, a crack could be exposing the nerves.
• Swollen gums – A crack can lead to irritation and inflammation in the surrounding tissue.
• Intermittent pain – Unlike cavities, which often cause constant discomfort, cracks tend to cause pain that comes and goes.

Is a Cracked Tooth a Dental Emergency?

Absolutely. A cracked tooth might not always seem urgent, but it’s a gateway to severe problems. Bacteria can seep into the crack, leading to infection. The damage can worsen with every bite, potentially turning a small crack into a full-on fracture. If you wait too long, saving the tooth might not be an option. Seeking emergency dental treatment right away can make all the difference.

What To Do Before Seeing an Emergency Dentist

Until you get to a dentist, here’s how to manage the pain and prevent further damage:

• Rinse with warm salt water – This helps keep bacteria in check and soothes irritation.
• Avoid chewing on that side – Give your tooth a break to prevent worsening the crack.
• Use a cold compress – This can reduce swelling and numb the area.
• Take over-the-counter pain relief – Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help, but avoid aspirin if there’s bleeding.

Treatment Options for a Cracked Tooth

Your treatment depends on the severity of the crack. Here’s what your emergency dentist might recommend:

• Bonding or Filling – For minor cracks, composite resin can seal the damage and restore function.
• Dental Crown – If a large portion of the tooth is affected, a crown can protect and strengthen it.
• Root Canal – If the crack reaches the pulp, a root canal removes the damaged tissue and prevents infection.
• Extraction – In severe cases, where the tooth is beyond saving, removal may be necessary.

Can You Prevent a Cracked Tooth?

Cracks happen, but a little prevention goes a long way:

• Wear a mouthguard – If you grind your teeth at night or play contact sports, this can prevent damage.
• Avoid chewing hard objects – Ice cubes, popcorn kernels, and even hard candies can be risky.
• Treat cavities promptly – Decay weakens teeth, making them more prone to cracking.
• Don’t use your teeth as tools – Tearing open packages with your teeth? Bad idea.

Why Immediate Treatment Matters?

Delaying treatment can lead to severe infections, extreme pain, and more invasive procedures. If you’re in pain or notice signs of a cracked tooth, don’t wait—reach out for emergency dental care right away. Quick action can be the difference between a simple fix and a major dental ordeal.

A cracked tooth shouldn’t take over your life. If you’re dealing with pain, don’t suffer in silence. Get the care you need from a trusted emergency dentist. Our team in El Segundo is ready to help you regain comfort and protect your smile. Call us now to schedule your emergency visit!