Cracked teeth can result from biting down on something hard, nighttime teeth grinding, or injury from sports. Not only is it painful, but it can also put you at risk of infection. Symptoms of a cracked tooth include temperature sensitivity, localized swelling, and occasional pain while chewing. If you experience a cracked or fractured tooth, here are three things you will need to do right away.
Things to Do Immediately After Cracking a Tooth
1. Rinse with Warm Water
Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clear any debris, such as lingering food particles. If you experience any bleeding, apply pressure to the area using a clean piece of gauze or cotton.
2. Reduce Swelling and Pain
Use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek or jaw near your injury to reduce swelling. You can take over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to manage any resulting pain.
3. Contact Your Dentist
In many cases, the damage from a cracked tooth in Northalsted goes much deeper than the surface. Proper diagnosis may involve testing, X-rays, or a special examination by an experienced professional. Therefore, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible after experiencing this type of injury. Take measures to protect your teeth until your appointment, such as chewing on the uninjured side of your mouth and staying away from hot or cold drinks.
Don’t Delay Treatment
Waiting too long to treat a cracked tooth in Northalsted can potentially lead to more serious problems. To get the best care for your oral health, contact Northalsted Dental Spa today.
