What should I do if I crack a tooth? Your step-by-step emergency dental guide

Whether it’s a sharp crunch on an olive stone, a knock during sport, or an old filling giving way, a cracked tooth can happen suddenly—and it can be alarming. Some cracks are painless, while others cause immediate discomfort. In either case, it’s important to act quickly.

As an experienced emergency dentist in Cardiff, Rumney Endodontics is here to help guide you through what to do when tooth damage strikes. In this blog, we explain the common causes of cracked teeth, what symptoms to look for, how cracks are treated, and how our team can help restore your smile with expert care.

What causes a cracked tooth?

Cracks in teeth can develop for many reasons. Common causes include:

• Biting hard objects (like ice, popcorn kernels, or hard sweets)

• Sporting accidents or facial trauma

• Teeth grinding (bruxism)

• Large fillings or weakened teeth

• Sudden temperature changes in the mouth (e.g., eating something hot then drinking something cold)

• Age-related wear

Even healthy teeth can crack under pressure, especially molars, which take the brunt of your bite force.

Signs you may have cracked a tooth

Some cracks are visible and painful, while others can be small and symptomless at first. Key warning signs include:

• Pain when chewing or biting

• Sensitivity to hot or cold drinks

• Pain that comes and goes

• Swelling around the affected tooth

• A visible line or split in the tooth enamel

• A feeling that part of the tooth is loose

In some cases, the pain might only occur when you release your bite, not when you chew. This can be a sign of a hairline fracture deep within the tooth.

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait—contact an emergency dentist in Cardiff as soon as possible. Quick treatment could mean the difference between saving and losing the tooth.

What to do immediately after cracking a tooth

If you suspect you’ve cracked a tooth, follow these steps:

1. Rinse your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean.

2. Avoid chewing on the affected side. Stick to soft foods.

3. Take pain relief like ibuprofen if needed (but avoid aspirin, as it can increase bleeding).

4. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.

5. Call your emergency dentist in Cardiff to arrange a same-day appointment if possible.

Avoid placing temporary dental cement or home remedies unless advised by a dental professional.

How Rumney Endodontics can help

At Rumney Endodontics, we offer prompt, compassionate emergency dental care to patients across Cardiff and the surrounding areas. If you crack a tooth, we’ll begin by taking a close look—using digital X-rays and, if needed, CBCT 3D imaging to assess the extent of the damage.

Depending on the severity and depth of the crack, we may recommend one of the following:

• Filling or bonding for minor cracks

• Crown placement to protect and restore the tooth

• Root canal treatment if the crack has reached the pulp (inner tissue)

• Extraction if the crack is too deep to repair

Where root canal treatment is needed, you’ll be in safe hands with our highly experienced clinicians, Dr. Andrew Bartley and Dr. Cassandra Maunder. Our clinic is equipped with the latest endodontic technology, including advanced microscopes and rotary systems, to carry out root canal therapy with precision and comfort.

Why cracked teeth need urgent attention

A cracked tooth won’t heal on its own. Even small fractures can worsen over time, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth and cause infection. Left untreated, cracks can lead to:

• Severe tooth pain

• Pulp infection and abscess

• Tooth discolouration

• Loss of the tooth

The earlier you seek treatment, the better the outcome. In many cases, we can restore the tooth and avoid extraction—but only if we catch the problem in time.

Do all cracks mean a root canal is needed?

Not always. Superficial cracks (known as craze lines) in the enamel don’t usually require treatment. However, if the crack has reached the dentine or pulp, root canal therapy may be necessary to save the tooth and prevent infection.

As a trusted provider of endodontics in Cardiff, we can determine the best course of action and explain your options clearly and honestly.

Can I prevent cracked teeth?

You can’t prevent every accident, but you can reduce your risk by:

• Avoiding chewing ice, hard sweets or bones

• Wearing a mouthguard during sport

• Using a night guard if you grind your teeth

• Seeing your dentist regularly to monitor the strength of your teeth and any restorations

Emergency dentist Cardiff: fast help when you need it most

If you’ve cracked a tooth, don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. Our team at Rumney Endodontics offers emergency appointments and expert root canal care to help you recover fast.

We also offer:

• Routine general dentistry

• Airflow hygiene services

• Cosmetic options including teeth whitening and composite bonding

• Dental membership plans from £18.60/month with check-ups, hygiene visits and 10% off treatment

• Expert diagnostics and imaging

Whether you’re in severe pain or simply unsure what’s happened, we’re here to help. We’ll give you clear advice, high-quality care, and a solution that puts your long-term oral health first.

Book your emergency appointment now - https://www.rumneyendodonticsanddentalcare.co.uk/contact