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A cracked tooth can happen when you least expect it — biting into something hard, taking a fall, or clenching your jaw during sleep. Whether it's a visible break or just a sudden sharp pain, acting quickly makes a difference.
If you’re in North Bethesda and think you may have cracked a tooth, here’s what to do and how White Flint Dental can help you get the relief you need.
Some cracks are easy to spot, especially if part of the tooth breaks off. Others are more subtle and may not show up until symptoms develop. Common signs include:
Even if the crack isn’t painful, it can worsen over time — so early care is key.
First, rinse your mouth gently with warm water to keep the area clean. If there's swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your face. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort, but avoid chewing on the affected side.
If part of the tooth has broken off, save the piece if possible and bring it with you to your appointment.
Don’t ignore the pain or try to tough it out. Even small cracks can expose the inner layers of your tooth to bacteria, leading to infection or nerve damage.
Avoid hot beverages, crunchy foods, and anything sticky that could worsen the damage. And don’t apply aspirin directly to the gums — it won’t help and may cause irritation.
Treatment depends on the location and severity of the crack. For minor surface cracks, we may polish the area or use dental bonding. Deeper cracks might require a crown to restore strength and protect the tooth.
If the crack extends into the pulp or root, a root canal may be needed. In severe cases, we’ll discuss whether extraction and replacement is the best option.
Our North Bethesda dental office uses digital imaging and magnification to detect even subtle cracks, helping us choose the least invasive and most effective treatment.
We know dental emergencies don’t happen on a schedule. That’s why we offer same-day appointments for urgent dental issues like cracked teeth, broken fillings, or pain that can’t wait. If you’re unsure whether something counts as an emergency, give us a call — we’ll help you decide.
Cracked teeth rarely heal on their own. The longer you wait, the higher the risk of infection or tooth loss. Getting professional care early can save your natural tooth and prevent bigger issues down the road.
Contact White Flint Dental in North Bethesda if you’ve experienced a cracked tooth or dental injury. We’re here to help you get back to a healthy, pain-free smile — fast.