A broken or cracked tooth can happen suddenly and leave you unsure of what to do next. You might notice a sharp pain when biting, see part of the tooth missing, or feel a rough edge with your tongue. Sometimes the damage is small, and other times it’s more obvious. No matter the situation, getting help quickly is the best way to protect your tooth and prevent the problem from getting worse.
At Klement Family Dental, we make these situations easier. Our team focuses on relieving your discomfort, explaining your options in simple terms, and treating your tooth with care. We’re here for you when something unexpected happens.
Teeth are strong, but they aren’t unbreakable. Everyday habits and sudden accidents can weaken or damage them. Many people crack a tooth from biting down on hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candy. Others grind their teeth at night without realizing it, which slowly wears them down. Injuries from sports, falls, or even something as simple as using your teeth to open a package can also lead to cracks. Over time, large fillings or natural aging can make a tooth more likely to break.
If you’re unsure what caused the damage, that’s completely normal. During your visit, Klement Family Dental will take a close look, explain what likely happened, and guide you toward the best treatment.
Some cracks are easy to spot, while others are hidden beneath the surface. You may feel sharp pain when chewing, notice sensitivity to hot or cold, or experience discomfort that comes and goes. Sometimes swelling can appear near the damaged tooth, or you might feel a chipped area with your tongue. Even small cracks can grow over time and lead to more serious issues, which is why calling Klement Family Dental at the first sign of trouble is so important.
Treatment depends on the location and depth of the crack, but our goal is always to save your natural tooth whenever possible. Small chips can often be fixed with dental bonding. This uses a tooth-colored material that blends in with your natural tooth and restores its shape.
When more of the tooth is damaged, a dental crown may be the best choice. A crown covers and protects the entire tooth, giving it strength and allowing you to chew comfortably again. If the crack reaches the center of the tooth where the nerve is, a root canal may be needed to remove infection and prevent pain. In rare cases where the tooth cannot be saved, we’ll guide you through tooth replacement options such as implants or bridges. No matter the situation, Klement Family Dental will walk you through each option so you feel confident about your care.
If you break or crack a tooth, try to stay calm and take a few simple steps to protect the area. Rinse your mouth with warm water to keep it clean. If there is bleeding, gently press gauze against the area. A cold compress on your cheek can reduce swelling. Try to avoid chewing on the injured side until you’ve been seen. Calling Klement Family Dental quickly is the most important step, because early treatment helps prevent further damage and makes it more likely that the tooth can be saved.
Although some accidents can’t be avoided, there are ways to lower your chances of cracking a tooth again. Try to avoid chewing on ice or other hard foods. If you grind your teeth, a simple nightguard can protect them while you sleep. Regular checkups give us a chance to catch small problems before they turn into bigger ones. We can also replace old fillings when needed to help keep your teeth strong.
Our team at Klement Family Dental is happy to help you create habits and routines that protect your smile long-term.
A broken or cracked tooth should be treated as soon as possible. The sooner you call, the easier it is for us to relieve your pain and save your tooth. If something doesn’t feel right or you’ve noticed a change in your bite, we’re ready to help you feel comfortable again.
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Call today to schedule your visit with Klement Family Dental and let our team help restore your smile!



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“We have been going to Klement Dental for several years. They are easy to schedule an appointment with, have a wide range of availability. The staff there from the doctors to the dental techs and the office staff are fantastic! They are professional, friendly, caring and go above & beyond to provide exceptional care.”
John V.
St Petersburg