A crack is not always easy to see. If a tooth hurts when you bite, becomes sensitive, or has broken after an injury, contact a dentist rather than trying to decide how serious it is from its appearance alone.
Signs worth checking
Pain with chewing, sensitivity to temperature, or discomfort that comes and goes can occur with a cracked tooth. Similar symptoms can also have other causes. An examination is needed to identify the problem.
Not all cracks are the same
Superficial enamel lines, a broken cusp, a deeper crack, a split tooth, and a root fracture are different conditions. The position and extent of the damage affect the treatment options. You cannot reliably classify a crack from an online description.
Protect the tooth while arranging care
Avoid chewing on the affected tooth and contact a dentist promptly. If the tooth broke in an injury, gently rinse your mouth with warm water. A cold compress on the face may help with swelling. Do not try to repair the tooth with household glue.
Broken-tooth emergency careDiscuss a treatment plan
Depending on the damage, a dentist may discuss a restoration, root canal treatment, or another approach. A tooth that cannot be restored may need removal. Prompt evaluation helps clarify your options but cannot guarantee that the tooth can be saved.
Call (914) 713-2424, option 4, for emergency phone guidance and help coordinating care in Scarsdale.
Read about root canal evaluationGeneral patient information, not a diagnosis or individualized treatment advice. Contact a dentist for your specific concern.
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