What to Do About a Cracked Molar Until We Can See You
Posted on 9/1/2025 by Summit Dental Group
We all know the importance of taking care of our teeth. But sometimes, even with the best oral care, things can happen. A cracked molar, for example, can be a painful and inconvenient experience.
If you find yourself in this situation, don't worry! There are a few things you can do to manage the pain and protect your tooth until you can see your dentist.
What is a Cracked Tooth?
A cracked tooth is a break in the enamel, the hard outer layer of your tooth. It can be caused by a number of factors, including:
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Trauma: This could be anything from a fall to being hit in the mouth.
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Biting down on something hard: This could be anything from ice to a popcorn kernel.
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Chewing on something hard: This could be anything from a pen cap to a fingernail.
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Grinding your teeth: This is also known as bruxism, and it can put a lot of stress on your teeth, making them more likely to crack.
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Large fillings: If a filling is too large, it can weaken the tooth and make it more likely to crack.
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Decay: If a cavity is left untreated, it can weaken the tooth and make it more likely to crack.
Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth
The symptoms of a cracked tooth can vary depending on the severity of the crack. Some people may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may experience:
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Pain when biting down
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Pain when chewing
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Sensitivity to hot or cold
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A loose tooth
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A sharp pain that comes and goes
What to Do if You Have a Cracked Tooth
If you think you have a cracked tooth, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to manage the pain and protect your tooth:
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Avoid chewing on the affected tooth: This will help to prevent the crack from getting worse.
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Take over-the-counter pain medication: This can help to relieve the pain.
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Use a cold compress: This can help to reduce swelling.
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Rinse your mouth with warm salt water: This can help to clean the area and prevent infection.
Restorative Dentistry
Once you see your dentist, they will be able to assess the severity of the crack and recommend the best course of treatment. This may involve:
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Bonding: If the crack is small, your dentist may be able to repair it with a composite resin bonding.
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A crown: If the crack is larger, your dentist may need to place a crown over the tooth to protect it.
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A root canal: If the crack has reached the pulp of the tooth, your dentist may need to perform a root canal to save the tooth.
Prevention
The best way to prevent a cracked tooth is to take good care of your teeth. This includes:
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Brushing your teeth twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
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Flossing once a day: This will help to remove plaque and food debris from between your teeth.
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Seeing your dentist for regular checkups: Your dentist will be able to examine your teeth for any signs of cracks or other problems.
Conclusion
A cracked molar can be a painful and inconvenient experience, but it is important to remember that there are things you can do to manage the pain and protect your tooth until you can see your dentist. By following the tips above, you can help to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
Dentist Fort Wayne, IN | About Summit Dental Group Providing safer, faster, more comfortable, and more effective procedures than ever before thanks to our cutting-edge technology in Fort Wayne, IN. Call today! Summit Dental Group, 9121 Illinois Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46804 + 260-297-7081 + summitdentalgrp.com + 4/20/2026 + Key Phrases: dentist Fort Wayne IN +
We all know the importance of taking care of our teeth. But sometimes, even with the best oral care, things can happen. A cracked molar, for example, can be a painful and inconvenient experience.