Cracked Tooth? Here’s How to Get Treated Quickly in Perth

A cracked tooth might not seem like a big deal at first, but even a minor fracture can lead to major discomfort and more serious issues if left untreated. Whether caused by biting something hard, a fall, or general wear and tear, a cracked tooth requires prompt attention from an experienced emergency dentist in Perth to avoid infection or tooth loss.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to recognise the signs of a cracked tooth, what to do immediately, and how a combination of emergency and routine care—such as visits to a hygienist in Perth—can help you avoid similar problems in future.

Signs You May Have a Cracked Tooth

Cracked teeth are not always visible to the naked eye. Some people ignore the pain, thinking it’s temporary, but that delay can make things worse.

Common Symptoms Include:

• Sharp pain when chewing or biting

• Sensitivity to hot or cold drinks

• Intermittent discomfort without an obvious cause

• Swelling around the tooth or gum

• Pain that comes and goes, especially when pressure is applied

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s crucial to contact an emergency dentist in Perth immediately to prevent complications like infection or nerve damage.

What to Do Immediately After Cracking a Tooth

The steps you take in the first few hours after cracking a tooth can have a major impact on your outcome.

Avoid using aspirin directly on the gums—it can cause chemical burns. Instead, get to an emergency dentist in Perth as soon as possible.

How an Emergency Dentist in Perth Will Treat It

When you arrive for your appointment, the emergency dentist in Perth will assess the type and severity of the crack before recommending a treatment plan.

Possible Treatment Options:

• Bonding: For small, superficial cracks. A tooth-coloured resin is applied to restore shape and strength.

• Crown: For deeper cracks. A custom crown protects and reinforces the damaged tooth.

• Root canal treatment: If the crack has reached the pulp (nerve), a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth.

• Tooth extraction: If the crack extends below the gum line and the tooth can’t be salvaged, removal may be required.

The sooner you seek treatment, the more options you’ll have to preserve the tooth.

The Role of a Hygienist in Preventing Future Damage

Although a hygienist doesn’t treat cracked teeth, routine visits to a hygienist in Perth are key in preventing damage that may lead to fractures.

Preventive Benefits of Hygiene Appointments:

• Removal of tartar build-up, which can weaken enamel

• Early detection of weakened fillings or enamel erosion

• Guidance on safe chewing habits and lifestyle choices

• Advice for patients who grind their teeth (bruxism)

• Support for patients with gum disease, which can destabilise teeth

• Custom care plans for high-risk individuals

Routine cleanings and exams with a hygienist in Perth make it easier to catch minor concerns before they become emergencies.

Cracked Teeth: What Not to Do

It's easy to make well-meaning mistakes when dealing with a cracked tooth. Avoiding these missteps can prevent further damage.

Don’t:

• Ignore the pain: It often signals deeper structural damage

• Chew hard foods: Ice, nuts, and even popcorn can worsen the crack

• Use your teeth as tools: Avoid opening packaging with your teeth

• Delay treatment: Waiting increases the risk of infection

• Skip hygiene visits: Long gaps between cleanings allow plaque to weaken enamel

Being proactive saves you both pain and money in the long run.

Prevention Tips for Avoiding Cracked Teeth

Here are some everyday strategies to reduce the risk of another cracked tooth:

• Wear a mouthguard during contact sports

• Avoid chewing ice or hard sweets

• Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth while sleeping

• Visit your hygienist in Perth every 6 months

• Keep up with routine check-ups to detect structural vulnerabilities

• Strengthen enamel through diet and fluoride treatments

Good habits combined with professional care reduce your risk of emergency visits in the future.

When to Call an Emergency Dentist in Perth

Still unsure whether your situation qualifies as urgent? If you answer “yes” to any of the questions below, don’t wait:

• Are you in persistent or severe pain?

• Is the tooth visibly cracked, chipped, or bleeding?

• Do you feel pressure or swelling around the area?

• Is eating or drinking triggering pain or discomfort?

• Are you concerned that the crack is spreading?

If so, seek immediate care from an emergency dentist in Perth to protect your tooth and avoid infection.

Can a Cracked Tooth Heal on Its Own?

Many patients hope a minor crack will resolve naturally, but unfortunately, that’s not the case. Unlike bones, teeth do not regenerate. Once a crack forms, it can only be stabilised or repaired by a dentist.

• Minor enamel cracks (known as craze lines) may not require treatment but still need monitoring.

• Deeper cracks that reach the dentine or pulp must be treated to avoid infection.

• Ignoring cracks may lead to nerve damage, abscesses, or tooth loss.

• Early dental intervention offers the best outcome with minimal treatment.

• A hygienist in Perth can help identify hidden cracks during routine cleanings.

• For peace of mind, always get any suspected crack assessed by an emergency dentist in Perth.

How Long Can You Wait to Treat a Cracked Tooth?

Timing is critical when it comes to cracked teeth. Even small delays in treatment can worsen the situation dramatically.

• Same-day treatment is ideal, especially if pain or swelling is present.

• Within 24–48 hours is recommended for non-severe but uncomfortable cracks.

• More than a week’s delay increases the risk of infection or complete tooth fracture.

• Cracks near the gumline are especially urgent and may become untreatable.

• Waiting often means more invasive procedures like root canals or extractions.

• Seeking immediate care from an emergency dentist in Perth protects the tooth and reduces long-term costs.

Conclusion

A cracked tooth may not always seem like an emergency, but if ignored, it can lead to serious complications. The key is acting quickly and getting treatment from a trusted emergency dentist in Perth before the situation worsens. Equally important is maintaining your oral health with regular visits to a hygienist in Perth, who plays a vital role in prevention. At EDA group, we’re here to provide fast, professional care for cracked teeth and all other urgent dental needs. Our team in Perth is ready to help you get back to smiling, without the stress