Emergency Dentistry Services

Broken, Chipped, or Cracked Teeth

Dental emergencies can occur at any time and they can be very painful and distressing. That’s why we offer emergency dental services to help alleviate your pain and discomfort as quickly as possible.

If your teeth have become so damaged by dental decay or other factors that they crack, Our team offer cracked teeth treatment. This treatment helps prevent or heal infection and restores your smile’s functionality.

Don’t let an emergency ruin your smile

There are many types of cracked teeth. The treatment we provide to restore your tooth and your smile will depend on the type of crack that has damaged the tooth.

All cracked teeth exhibit the same symptoms, which include pain while chewing, sensitivity to temperature and a release of biting pressure. Cracked teeth can also cause intermittent pain, which can make it difficult to diagnose the exact cause of your discomfort.

Some types of cracked teeth are:

  • Craze lines — Tiny cracks in the outer enamel of the tooth. This type of crack is superficial and does not usually require treatment unless you are seeking cosmetic improvement.
  • Fractured cusps — A crack that occurs when the raised points on top of your teeth (the cusps) become weakened, breaking off on their own or being broken off by a dental professional. Crowns are usually recommended to restore teeth with fractured cusps.
  • Cracked tooth — This type of crack extends from the chewing surface of the tooth toward the root. In some cases, the crack extends below the gumline and into the root. Damage to the pulp is common, making root canals a necessary treatment to save the tooth.
  • Split tooth — This type of crack usually occurs when a cracked tooth is not treated, causing the tooth to break into distinct segments. Our dentist may or may not be able to save the tooth, depending on the position of the tooth and the extent of the damage. Endodontic treatment or retreatment may be necessary if the tooth is savable.
  • Vertical root fracture — Vertical root fractures begin at the root and extend towards the chewing surface of the tooth. There are no obvious systems to identify this type of crack, and it may go undiagnosed for some time as a result. The tooth will most likely need to be extracted. If it can be saved, you will require an endodontic surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I break, chip, or crack a tooth?

If you damage a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and contact your dentist immediately. Quick treatment can prevent further damage or infection.

Can cosmetic dentistry fix a chipped or cracked tooth?

Yes. Cosmetic options like dental bonding, veneers, or crowns can restore the tooth’s appearance and function, often in just one or two visits.

Is a cracked or broken tooth a dental emergency?

It can be. Deep cracks or breaks can expose nerves and lead to pain or infection. Prompt dental care is essential to relieve discomfort and protect the tooth.

How can I tell if I have a cracked tooth?

Common signs of a cracked tooth include pain when chewing, sensitivity to temperature changes, and swelling around the affected tooth. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a dentist for an evaluation.

Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?

Unfortunately, a cracked tooth cannot heal on its own. Dental treatment is necessary to repair the crack and prevent further damage. Depending on the severity of the crack, your dentist will recommend the most appropriate treatment option.

Effective, reliable treatments for all of our patients.

No matter what your needs or goals for your smile may be, our dentists and teams are here to help. We look forward to meeting you and helping you take your first steps to better smiles.

Take some time to learn more about the services we provide at Northwestern Dental Center. When you are ready to schedule an appointment with our dentists, contact our dental offices in Chicago.

More Emergency Dentistry Services

Our experienced and caring team is dedicated to serving all of our patients and providing top-notch oral health care. We strive to make dental visits easy and stress-free for you and your loved ones. Our friendly atmosphere ensures that you feel comfortable and at ease during their dental appointments.

From routine check-ups and cleanings to preventive treatments like dental sealants and fluoride treatments, we prioritize preventive care to maintain healthy smiles for a lifetime. Should any dental concerns arise, our skilled dentists are equipped to deliver a wide range of services, including restorative treatments, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry.

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