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Biting into something hard. A sports mishap. An accidental fall. These moments can leave you with more than just a surprise—they can leave you with a cracked or broken tooth. It might not hurt right away. You might even feel tempted to wait it out. But ignoring the issue can make things more complicated—and more painful. If you’ve damaged a tooth, a prompt visit to an emergency dentist in Delaware, OH, can protect your comfort, oral health, and long-term peace of mind.

Cracks and Breaks Don’t Always Show Symptoms

Not every crack causes pain. Some are visible, others are hidden below the surface. A minor chip might seem harmless, but even small damage can expose the tooth to bacteria and decay.

Hairline cracks can deepen over time from chewing or temperature changes. Without treatment, they can lead to:

• Tooth sensitivity
• Discomfort when biting down
• Internal damage to the pulp
• Infection or abscess formation

Taking a professional exam is the only way to determine the extent of the problem.

Why Waiting Makes It Worse

The structure of your tooth is like a shell. Once it’s compromised, it’s easier for bacteria to reach the sensitive layers underneath. Even if the damage appears small, its effects can escalate rapidly.

Here’s what may happen if a cracked or broken tooth is ignored:

• Worsening fracture: The tooth may break further with normal chewing.
• Infection: A crack allows bacteria to enter, possibly reaching the nerve or root.
• Tooth loss: In severe cases, the tooth may no longer be salvageable.

Acting early gives your dentist more options to preserve the natural tooth.

Common Causes of Cracked or Broken Teeth

Cracks can develop suddenly or gradually. Some of the most common causes include:

• Chewing on hard objects (ice, pens, nuts)
• Teeth grinding or clenching
• Accidents or trauma
• Large fillings that weaken tooth structure
• Age-related wear and tear

Some cracks may be unavoidable, but wearing a mouthguard, managing stress, and avoiding risky habits can reduce your chances.

What Treatment Looks Like

Treatment depends on the size, location, and severity of the damage. After a thorough examination, your dentist will recommend the most suitable option.

Here are a few possibilities:

• Bonding: For minor chips, composite resin can restore appearance and strength.
• Crown: Larger breaks often need a crown to protect the tooth and restore function.
• Root canal therapy: If the inner pulp is affected, this procedure can save the tooth.
• Extraction and replacement: In rare cases where the damage is severe, the tooth may need to be removed and replaced with a bridge or dental implant.

Prompt attention means more conservative treatment and less discomfort overall.

See an Emergency Dentist in Delaware, OH, Today

A cracked or broken tooth can start as a minor inconvenience but become a much bigger problem if not addressed. Even if you’re not experiencing pain, having your tooth examined can help prevent future issues and protect your smile.

At Turtle Creek Dental Care, we believe fast, compassionate care makes all the difference. Whether you’re dealing with sudden dental pain, visible damage, or something that doesn’t feel right, our team is here to help. We offer emergency dental care in Delaware, OH, with a calming, patient-first approach tailored to your needs.

If you’ve damaged a tooth or think something may be wrong, call us now. Let’s keep your smile strong, healthy, and worry-free.