Dental emergencies are never convenient. They can happen at home, at work, or while you’re on holiday. While dental issues come in many forms, the most common emergency seen by dentists across the UK is a cracked or broken tooth. At Perfect Smile Spa in Essex, our emergency team regularly treats patients who are in pain, anxious, and in urgent need of care due to this very problem.
The good news? Many dental emergencies, including cracked teeth, can be prevented. In this blog, we’ll explore what causes them, how to avoid them, and what to do if it happens to you.
Why Cracked or Broken Teeth Are So Common
Cracked teeth can occur for several reasons, often when you least expect it:
- Biting down on hard foods like ice, boiled sweets, or bones
- Injuries from sports or falls
- Teeth grinding or clenching during sleep (bruxism)
- Large fillings that weaken the surrounding tooth structure
- Age-related wear and tear
Even a small crack can expose the sensitive inner parts of the tooth, leading to pain, sensitivity, and risk of infection.
Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth
- Sharp pain when chewing or biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
- Intermittent pain with no obvious cause
- Swelling around the tooth or gum line
How to Avoid This Common Emergency
- Regular Dental Check-ups
- Small cracks can often be detected during routine check-ups before they become serious.
- Avoid Chewing on Hard Objects
- Skip chewing on ice, pen lids, or fingernails.
- Use a Night Guard
- If you grind your teeth at night, a custom night guard can prevent damage.
- Protect Your Teeth During Sports
- A professionally fitted mouthguard can reduce the risk of trauma.
- Treat Any Existing Dental Issues Promptly
- Delaying care for fillings or crowns can make the tooth more vulnerable.
What to Do If You Crack a Tooth
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to keep it clean
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
- Avoid chewing on that side
- Call Perfect Smile Spa immediately for emergency dental care
Acting quickly can make the difference between saving a tooth and needing more extensive treatment.
Treatment Options
Depending on the severity of the crack, we may recommend:
- Dental bonding
- Porcelain crown
- Root canal (if the crack extends to the pulp)
- Tooth extraction in severe cases
Conclusion
While cracked teeth are the most common dental emergency, they are also one of the most preventable. With a few smart habits and regular visits to your dentist, you can keep your smile strong and avoid painful surprises. If you are ever in doubt or in pain, contact Perfect Smile Spa right away. We offer emergency appointments and pain-free dentistry to help you get back to smiling confidently.
