Cracked and Broken Tooth Emergencies in Scottsdale, AZ
Emergency Dental Care Near You
A cracked or broken tooth is a dental emergency that can cause significant pain, discomfort, and anxiety. Whether it’s a minor chip or a severe fracture, prompt action is critical to save your tooth and prevent further complications. At Pristine Dental, our team can handle cracked or broken tooth emergencies with precise care, advanced technology, and a patient-first approach.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in Scottsdale, contact our emergency dentist near you by calling (480) 935-2424.
What Is a Cracked or Broken Tooth?
A cracked or broken tooth occurs when the tooth’s structure is compromised, ranging from a minor chip in the enamel to a severe fracture that reaches the tooth’s root. These injuries can affect the enamel, dentin, or pulp (the innermost layer containing nerves and blood vessels), leading to varying levels of pain and urgency.
Types of Broken and Cracked Teeth
The main types of broken and cracked teeth include:
- Craze Lines: Hairline cracks in the enamel, often cosmetic and painless.
- Chipped Tooth: A small piece of enamel breaks off, typically minor but potentially sharp.
- Cracked Tooth: A crack extends from the chewing surface toward the root, often causing pain.
- Fractured Cusp: Part of the chewing surface breaks off, usually around a filling.
- Split Tooth: A severe crack that splits the tooth into two parts, often requiring extraction.
- Vertical Root Fracture: A crack that starts at the root and extends upward, often difficult to detect.
If you’re experiencing sharp pain from tooth cracks or other tooth pain, contact our Scottsdale emergency dentist at (480) 935-2424 for an appointment.
Symptoms of a Cracked or Broken Tooth
Recognizing the signs of a cracked or broken tooth can help you act quickly. Common symptoms include:
- Sharp pain when chewing or biting
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Intermittent or constant toothache
- Swelling or inflammation around the affected tooth
- Visible cracks, chips, or missing tooth fragments
- Discomfort when releasing bite pressure
What to Do If You Crack or Break a Tooth
A cracked or broken tooth requires immediate attention. Follow these steps to manage the situation before seeing our dentist:
- Rinse Your Mouth: Gently rinse with warm water to clean the area and remove debris.
- Save Tooth Fragments: If a piece of the tooth broke off, store it in milk or saline to keep it viable for possible reattachment.
- Control Bleeding: Apply gauze or a clean cloth to any bleeding areas for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Reduce Pain and Swelling: Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek and take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (avoid aspirin if bleeding).
- Protect the Tooth: Cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugarless gum to prevent injury to your tongue or cheeks.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing on the affected side until you see a dentist.
- Contact Our Dentist Near You Immediately: Time is critical to save the tooth and prevent infection, so contact our dentist at (480) 935-2424.
Emergency Treatments for Broken and Cracked Teeth
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a non-invasive and cost-effective treatment option for minor cracked teeth, including craze lines and small chips. During the treatment, Dr. Smith will apply a tooth-colored composite resin to the damaged area, carefully shaping and bonding it to the tooth. Dental bonding restores the tooth’s appearance and reinforces its structure, providing strength and protection.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a popular option for restoring a severely cracked tooth. If a substantial portion of the tooth is damaged or if the crack extends into the root, a dental crown is often recommended. The procedure involves placing a custom-made crown over the entire visible portion of the tooth, effectively restoring its shape, function, and appearance. Dental crowns are durable and long-lasting, making them an excellent solution for extensive tooth cracks.
Root Canal Treatment
When a tooth crack reaches the inner pulp of the tooth, it can cause excruciating pain and sensitivity. In such cases, a root canal treatment may be necessary to save the tooth from extraction. During a root canal treatment, the infected or damaged pulp is removed, and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. Once root canal treatment is complete, a dental crown is often placed to protect and strengthen the treated tooth.
Tooth Extraction
In some situations, cracked or broken teeth are so severe that the affected tooth can’t be saved. Tooth extraction becomes the last resort when the damage is extensive, the tooth can’t be effectively restored, or it poses a risk of infection to surrounding teeth. After the extraction, our dentist will discuss tooth replacement options, such as dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures, to restore your smile and maintain oral health.
Contact our dental office near you today by calling (480) 935-2424 for treatment.
How to Prevent a Broken or Cracked Tooth
Prevention is the best way to avoid the pain and expense of a broken or cracked tooth. Follow these tips:
- Wear a Mouthguard: Use a custom-fitted mouthguard for sports or if you grind your teeth at night.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Skip ice, hard candy, and unpopped popcorn kernels.
- Strengthen Teeth: Maintain good oral hygiene with twice-daily brushing and daily flossing.
- Visit Our Local Dentist Regularly: Routine checkups can catch weakened teeth early.
- Use Proper Tools: Never use your teeth to open bottles or cut objects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I go to the ER for a cracked tooth?
Visiting the emergency room for a cracked tooth is generally not necessary unless you’re experiencing severe pain, excessive bleeding, or other serious symptoms along with the tooth fracture. In most cases, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible for appropriate evaluation and treatment.
How long can you wait to fix a broken tooth?
Schedule an appointment with your dentist within a day or two of experiencing the break. If immediate care isn’t possible, taking proper precautions, such as avoiding hard foods and maintaining good oral hygiene, can help prevent further damage until you can see a dentist.
Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?
No, a cracked tooth cannot heal on its own. Unlike bones, teeth lack the ability to self-repair. Prompt dental treatment is essential to prevent worsening damage or infection.
Can a cracked tooth lead to infection?
Yes, if a crack exposes the pulp or allows bacteria to enter, it can lead to an infection or abscess. Symptoms include swelling, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth.
Visit Pristine Dental for Emergency Dental Services
A cracked or broken tooth is a dental emergency that demands quick action. Ignoring the problem can lead to severe pain, infection, or tooth loss. We’re here to provide professional, compassionate care to restore your smile and confidence. With same-day appointments, advanced treatments, and flexible financing, we make it easy to get the care you need when you need it.
Contact one of the best dentists in Scottsdale at (480) 935-2424 to schedule your appointment.