Cracked or Broken Tooth: What to Do Right Now
A cracked or broken tooth can range from a minor chip to a painful split that exposes the inner layers of the tooth. What you do in the first few hours matters — both for saving the tooth and for managing pain.
What to do right away
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the area
- If there's bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze
- Save any broken pieces and bring them with you
- Reduce swelling with a cold compress on the outside of the cheek or lip
If the tooth is painful, an over-the-counter pain reliever can help, but avoid aspirin placed directly on the gum, which can burn the tissue. If the break has left a sharp edge, you can cover it with a small piece of sugarless gum or dental wax to protect your tongue and cheek until you can see a dentist.
When it's urgent
See a dentist as soon as possible — ideally the same day — for any significant break. If the crack extends below the gumline or the tooth is split, saving it may be difficult, and a root canal or extraction may be needed. If you also have facial swelling, fever, or the tooth is knocked out entirely, treat it as an emergency.
Treatment depends on the severity: a small chip may need only smoothing or a filling; a larger break usually needs a crown; a crack that reaches the pulp needs a root canal plus a crown. Whatever the fix, quick action gives your dentist the best chance to save the tooth.
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