Cracked or Chipped Tooth: What to Do in Atlanta
Cracks Can Be Hard to See
A cracked tooth often causes sharp pain when you bite or release a bite, or sensitivity to cold, even when you can't see the crack. A chip is usually visible but may not hurt. Both should be examined, because cracks can grow deeper over time.
Broke a tooth? Save any pieces and call us. Rinse gently with warm water and avoid chewing on that side.
Types of Cracks and How They're Treated
Treatment depends on how deep the crack goes.
| Possible cause | What you may notice | How it's treated | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|
| Craze lines | Fine surface lines, no pain | Often no treatment; cosmetic bonding if desired | Veneers |
| Chip | Rough or sharp edge; may be sensitive | Smoothing, bonding, or a filling | Fillings |
| Fractured cusp | A corner breaks off, often near a large filling | Filling, onlay, or crown | Fillings |
| Cracked tooth | Sharp pain on biting or release; cold sensitivity | Crown or onlay to hold the tooth together; nerve care if affected | Toothache |
| Split tooth or root fracture | Pain, swelling, or a tooth in separate pieces | Extraction is often needed | Tooth Extractions |
This table describes common patterns, not a diagnosis. Your examination determines the cause and the right care.
When to Call Right Away
Call 404-233-1102 the same day if you notice any of the following.
A large break, or a break with bleeding or severe pain
Swelling around a cracked tooth
A tooth that moves in pieces
A broken tooth after a blow to the face (check for other injuries too)
When medical care comes first: Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling spreading quickly in the face or neck, uncontrolled bleeding, or serious facial injury.
What You Can Do Until Your Visit
These steps can ease discomfort, but they don't treat the cause.
Rinse gently with warm water and save any broken pieces.
Use a cold compress on your cheek for swelling.
•Avoid chewing on that side and avoid hard or sticky foods.
Cover a sharp edge with sugar-free gum or dental wax to protect your tongue and cheek.
What to Expect at Your Visit
Every visit starts with listening. We examine before we recommend, and the decision is always yours.
Your history. When it happened, what you were biting, and which movements hurt.
Examination. We use magnification, bite tests on individual cusps, and a light to trace the crack.
Imaging when needed. X-rays help check the root and bone, although many cracks don't show on X-rays.
Options explained. The most conservative repair that will protect the tooth, and what happens if it's left alone.
How We Approach Cracked or Chipped Tooth at Atlanta Dental Wellness
We aim to save as much natural tooth as possible.
We use BPA/Bis-GMA-free composite and discuss ceramic options for larger repairs.
We check for clenching and grinding, which often cause cracks, and may recommend a protective appliance.
When the nerve is affected, we explain root canal therapy and refer you; when the tooth can't be saved, we explain extraction and replacement.
Both of our dentists, Dr. Cale Jackson and Dr. Matthew Giordano, are SMART-certified and accredited by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT).
Frequently Asked Questions
These answers address common questions patients ask about cracked or chipped tooth. Your examination and health history may lead to different advice for you.
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Common signs are sharp pain when biting or releasing a bite, and sensitivity to cold. Many cracks are not visible.
A dentist can use bite tests and magnification to find a crack.
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No. Unlike bone, tooth enamel and dentin do not heal once cracked.
Early treatment can keep a crack from spreading and save the tooth.
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A small chip without pain can usually wait a few days. A large break, bleeding, or severe pain should be seen the same day.
Save the piece if you can and call us.
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Cost depends on the size of the chip and the repair needed, from smoothing to a crown.
Please call 404-233-1102. We explain estimates and insurance before treatment.
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Often, yes. A crown or onlay holds the tooth together and protects it from biting forces.
Small chips and craze lines usually don't need a crown.
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Many can, especially when the crack hasn't reached the root.
A crack that splits the tooth or extends into the root usually means extraction.
Last reviewed: October 2026 by Cale Jackson, DMD, SMART-certified and IAOMT-accredited biological dentist, Atlanta Dental Wellness.
Protect the Tooth Before the Crack Grows
If you think a tooth is cracked or chipped, call Atlanta Dental Wellness in Atlanta. We'll find the crack and explain the most conservative repair.