Broken Tooth / Cracked Tooth
“A chipped or cracked tooth should be checked quickly. Early care can often save the tooth.”
What to Do Right Now
Rinse your mouth with warm water
Save any large pieces and bring them with you
Apply gentle pressure with gauze if there is bleeding
Use a cold compress for swelling
Cover sharp edges with orthodontic wax or sugar-free gum
If a Tooth Is Knocked Out
Time is critical. Call us immediately.
Hold the tooth by the crown, never the root
Rinse briefly with milk or saline. Do not scrub
Gently place it back in the socket if you can, or keep it in cold milk
Come in within 30–60 minutes
If the injury is severe or our office is closed, go to the nearest emergency room.
Signs of a Cracked Tooth
Sharp pain when you bite, especially when you release
Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets
Pain that comes and goes
Cracks are often invisible on X-rays, so Dr. Kim uses bite tests, magnification, and careful examination to find them.
Treatment
Minor chip: polishing or [Cosmetic Bonding →]
Larger break or crack: [Crown →] to protect the tooth
Crack reaching the nerve: [Root Canal Treatment →] and a crown
Tooth that cannot be saved: [Tooth Extraction →] with a plan for replacement
Prevention
Avoid chewing ice and hard objects, wear a [Night Guard →] if you grind, and use a mouthguard for sports.