How to Recognize and Treat a Chipped, Broken or Cracked Tooth

A chipped, broken or cracked tooth can be caused by a variety of factors such as:

* Biting down on something hard like a pen or ice
* Chewing on something sticky like gum or candy
* Grinding or clenching your teeth at night
* A blow to the mouth
* Decay or weakening of the tooth structure

If you have a chipped, broken or cracked tooth, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more likely the tooth will become infected or cause other problems.

Here are some signs and symptoms that you may have a chipped, broken or cracked tooth:

* Pain when biting down on the tooth
* Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
* Visible chip or crack in the tooth
* Difficulty chewing or biting
* Swelling or redness around the affected tooth

If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to assess the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Treatment for a chipped, broken or cracked tooth will depend on the severity of the injury. Some common treatments include:

* Filling or bonding to repair the chip or crack
* Crown or cap to cover the entire tooth
* Root canal if the pulp of the tooth is damaged
* Extraction if the tooth cannot be saved

It is important to note that if you have a chipped, broken or cracked tooth, it is important to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until the tooth can be properly repaired. This will help prevent further damage and discomfort.