Cracked And Chipped Teeth
Cracked And Chipped Teeth
A cracked or chipped tooth can result from chewing hard foods such as ice or nuts, grinding your teeth at night, trauma or injury to the teeth or a natural phenomenon as you age. Symptoms of cracked or chipped teeth include pain when chewing or biting, sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods, sudden sharp pain, or swelling of the gums. It’s important that you visit a dentist as soon as you notice or suspect your tooth is cracked to prevent further damage. Our dental professionals at McKinnon Dental Care have sound knowledge on cracked tooth and can help alleviate your symptoms and treat the affected tooth while also taking into aesthetic considerations.
You can also talk to our dentists about preventative measures to avoid cracked and chipped teeth in the future. Custom mouthguards for high-contact sports are also available to help safeguard your smile.
Call us on 03 9957 5199 to gift yourself a brighter smile today!
We are Passionate About What We Do!
We are passionate about our work and take pride in providing life changing results for our patients. Our dental team are proud to have decades of combined experience and have supported individuals and families across Melbourne to establish and maintain healthy smiles. It is rewarding to see our patients achieve their desired results, and it motivates us to continue providing unparalleled dental experiences to the community.
Gentle, Caring and Safe!
At McKinnon Dental Care, patients’ comfort is our number one priority. Our knowledgeable dental team understand that many people experience dental anxiety – there’s no need to be ashamed! Our goal is to provide minimally invasive treatments in a warm and welcoming environment . If you are nervous or are concerned about your upcoming dental appointment, we encourage you to let our team know so we can make special arrangements to maximise your comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this condition, answered by the team at McKinnon Dental Care, McKinnon.
What causes a cracked or chipped tooth?
Common causes include biting hard foods or objects, accidents and sports injuries, teeth grinding, large old fillings that weaken the tooth, and sudden temperature changes. Even a small chip can grow if left untreated.
Is a cracked tooth a dental emergency?
It can be. Severe pain, a large break, bleeding, or a tooth knocked loose should be treated urgently — call McKinnon Dental Care on (03) 9957 5199. A minor chip with no pain is less urgent but should still be examined soon.
What should I do immediately after chipping a tooth?
Rinse your mouth with warm water, save any broken pieces if possible, apply a cold compress for swelling, and avoid chewing on that side. Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed and arrange to see us promptly.
Can a chipped tooth be fixed?
Yes. Depending on the size, options include smoothing, tooth-coloured bonding, a veneer, or a crown. Small chips are often repaired in a single visit, restoring both appearance and function.
How is a cracked tooth treated?
Treatment depends on the depth of the crack. A shallow crack may need bonding or a crown, while a crack reaching the nerve can require root canal treatment, and a split tooth may need removal. Early assessment gives more options.
Does a cracked tooth always hurt?
Not always. Some cracks cause sharp pain on biting or sensitivity to temperature, while others are painless at first. Because a crack can deepen over time, any suspected crack should be checked even without pain.
Will a small chip get worse if I leave it?
It can. A chip creates a weak point and a rough edge where further breakage, decay, or irritation to the tongue and cheek can occur. Repairing it early is usually simpler and cheaper than waiting.
Can a knocked-out tooth be saved?
Sometimes, if you act fast. Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it, and if possible reposition it in the socket or keep it in milk, then see a dentist immediately. Time is critical for success.
How can I protect my teeth from cracks and chips?
Avoid chewing ice, pens, and very hard foods, wear a custom mouthguard for sport, and ask about a night guard if you grind your teeth. Regular check-ups also spot weakened or heavily filled teeth before they break.
Should I see a dentist for a tiny chip with no pain?
Yes, it is worth a quick check. Your dentist can smooth or repair the edge, confirm there is no hidden crack, and prevent a small problem from becoming a bigger one. Book with McKinnon Dental Care at your convenience.
About Us
We are trusted by hundreds of local families and individuals who want safe, effective, affordable and comfortable dental treatments. It is our mission to provide quality advice that helps you smile brighter.
Contact Us
181 McKinnon Rd, McKinnon VIC 3204
Monday – Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm, Saturday: By Appointment Only, Sunday Closed
Servicing Suburbs
We service McKinnon and its neighboring suburbs which includes but not limited to: Glen Huntly, Elsternwick, Brighton, Murrumbeena, Bentleigh, Bentleigh East, St Kilda, St Kilda East, Caulfield East, Caulfield, Caulfield North, Caulfield South, Chadstone, Ormond, Gardenvale, Oakleigh, Oakleigh East, Carnegie, Brighton East, Malvern
