Experiencing dental trauma such as a cracked tooth can expose nerves and blood vessels, which may result in sudden, intense bursts of pain. While discomfort isn't always chronic, getting treatment from an endodontist is essential in reducing further issues. If you experience a cracked tooth, take the following steps and seek endodontic treatment. 

How to Address Dental Trauma

1. Rinse and Apply Pressure

The first thing you should do after cracking a tooth is to rinse your mouth with warm water. This gently removes dirt or blood and can reduce your risk of swallowing the broken piece of tooth. After rinsing, apply localized pressure to the area using a clean washcloth or fresh gauze. This pressure will help slow bleeding and reduce the initial swelling, which can help your endodontist treat dental trauma with less discomfort. 

2. Preserve the Tooth

When you rinse your mouth, be cognizant of any broken pieces of tooth. While not all cracked teeth result in breakage, your endodontist may be able to save and replace the piece if it's properly preserved. Remove the broken piece of the tooth from your mouth, carefully rinse it off, and submerge it in a saline solution to help preserve the enamel. If you don't have a saline solution, milk or water are acceptable alternatives. 

3. Alleviate Pain and Swelling

Immediately following a cracked tooth, you may experience high levels of discomfort. You can alleviate this by applying a cold compress directly to the site and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. The cold compress will help constrict blood vessels, which minimizes inflammation, slows bleeding, and helps numb the area. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or aspirin can help relieve pain while reducing inflammation, but you can also take acetaminophen. 

4. See Your Dentist ASAP

After experiencing any type of dental trauma, it's important to see your dentist or endodontist as soon as possible. This increases your chances of preserving and reattaching the tooth, reduces the risk of infection, and addresses pain or discomfort quickly. If you notice any excessive bleeding or dizziness, call 9-1-1 or go to an emergency room immediately as these could indicate more severe injuries. 

If you experience a cracked tooth or other types of dental trauma, turn to the professionals at Grassi & Grassi, PC in Rochester, NY. Their team of endodontists has been providing gentle and comfortable care to residents throughout Monroe County for over 40 years. Using a personalized approach, these doctors make sure that you know how to properly care for your tooth following endodontic care, so no major pain is experienced. To learn about various sources of tooth pain, visit their website or call them today at (585) 424-1111 to schedule a consultation.