Just because your tooth is only cracked, it does not mean that you should treat it as a serious problem. The damage may not be clear to see, but a crack or chip could lead to bigger problems soon. The quicker you visit an emergency walk in dentist, the quicker the problem will be cured. A chipped tooth or lost crown when not treated will only lead to pain and regret. The damage could get worse, and what is an easy issue to deal with at the beginning, can become a big problem.
Damaged tooth
Once you are aware of the emergency cracked tooth, it will be time to make an appointment. You will need to undergo treatment right away and this will include having x-rays taken and a complete examination will be made. Not all chipped teeth are painful but if it is in your case, there is no reason why you cannot take painkillers. It will be good to ensure it is something generic such as aspirin.
Until the tooth has been dealt with by a dentist, you need to protect it as much as possible. This will mean eating soft things and even then, not using that tooth to chew. Another way to protect it is to eat warm food and drink tepid drinks. Anything too hot or cold will be uncomfortable at best and excruciating at worst.
If you are lucky
One of the best-case scenario will be a small chip. This will give you better options when it comes to the treatment that can be carried out in a dental office. The options include: –
- Cosmetic correction – basically the chip will be smoothed over.
- Repair – this will be the most likely option when it is a broken or cracked tooth.
- Replacement – this is going to be needed when the tooth that is damaged has either been filled, or is a veneer.
- Tooth knocked out – this is going to open a brand-new can of worms as there are again options.
It is worth remembering that without the filling or the crown, the remainder of the tooth will be vulnerable. It will not be as strong or as firmly rooted into the gun. This means that it could start to fall apart, or could move, causing problems for the teeth next to it. Cosmetic dentistry costs are not prohibitive so there is no reason not to get treated when you need it.
Other Problems
Any damage to the teeth, mouth and gums should be taken seriously and medical treatment will be needed if: –
- There is excessive or long-lasting bleeding
- There is an infection starting
- There is any swelling in the mouth or neck
If I was concerned I would go straight to the closest dentist office and hopefully there will be someone qualified in cosmetic dentistry near me. It is no good believing that everything will be alright, and it is “only a tooth” as it will be easy to regret the decision in the future. There could be additional pain when bacteria creep in or a large bill if the tooth needs to be replaced.