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Part of My Molar Is Cracked Off; Can it Be Fixed?

You just bit down on something hard and you suddenly realize a piece of your molar has come off. Although these teeth in the back of the mouth are very strong, this can happen. It may or may not hurt, depending on how much of the tooth has broken off. People sometimes realize there is a break when a tooth is sensitive to hot or cold drinks, food or air. The pain may come and go or be constant. Your dentist will be able to analyze the tooth and determine treatment.

  1. Chips

    • If you have a small chip in your molar, you may not need treatment. However, your dentist has a couple of different options if treatment is necessary. To stop the chip from getting bigger, your dentist may opt to smooth the chipped area. Another option is to put filling material in the chip.

    Broken Cusp

    • Your cusp is the pointed chewing surface of your teeth. A break in the cusp might not cause pain. The dentist can restore the shape of the tooth. But many times, a crown is required so your molar doesn't sustain more damage.

    Serious Break

    • A serious break occurs if the chip in your molar exposes a nerve. A molar in this case will almost always hurt and be highly sensitive. Bleeding occurs as well. A root canal is the dental procedure for a tooth with an exposed nerve. After the root canal, the molar will be fitted with a crown.

    Prior to Dentist Visit

    • If you crack your molar and have to wait until you can get to the dentist's office, there are things you can do to help the situation. Rinse your mouth with warm water. If your molar has cracked and there is bleeding, apply pressure with a piece of gauze or a tea bag for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. To reduce swelling and relieve pain, apply a cold pack on your cheek near the broken tooth. Use a pain reliever, if necessary.

    Don't Ignore a Cracked Molar

    • You might not feel pain if only a small piece of your molar is broken. Unfortunately, the condition can worsen if the tooth is not treated. More of the tooth can crack. So, it is best to let the dentist determine what steps are necessary.

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