Not every dental problem requires emergency care, but knowing when to pick up the phone can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. If you’ve cracked a tooth or lost a filling in Coralville, Coral West Dental can help you determine whether you need immediate attention from Dr. Rubel or if the issue can wait for a regular appointment.

Here’s what you need to know about cracked teeth and lost fillings – and when they become dental emergencies.

Types of Tooth Cracks

Minor Chips

Small chips in the enamel usually don’t cause pain or require emergency care. However, you should still schedule an appointment soon to smooth rough edges and prevent the chip from worsening.

Craze Lines

These are tiny, superficial cracks in the enamel. They’re common in adults and rarely require treatment unless they’re cosmetically concerning.

Fractured Cusp

When a piece of the tooth’s chewing surface breaks off, it typically doesn’t cause much pain since it doesn’t affect the pulp. Still, you should see Dr. Rubel within a few days to restore the tooth.

Serious Cracks That Need Immediate Care

• Cracks extending below the gum line: These often can’t be saved
• Split teeth: When a crack runs from the surface to below the gum line
• Vertical root fractures: Cracks that begin at the root and extend upward

When a Cracked Tooth Is an Emergency

Call Coral West Dental immediately if you experience:

• Severe pain: Especially if it’s constant or worsens with biting
• Sharp edges: That cut your tongue or cheek
• Sensitivity: Extreme reactions to hot, cold, or sweet foods
• Swelling: Around the affected tooth
• Bleeding: From the gum line near the crack
• Visible large crack or split: Particularly if you can see inside the tooth

Even without severe pain, a crack that extends deep into the tooth can allow bacteria to reach the pulp, leading to infection. It’s better to have Dr. Rubel evaluate the crack promptly.

Lost Fillings: When to Worry

Fillings can fall out for several reasons:

• New decay forming around an old filling
• Wear and tear over time
• Biting pressure on the filling
• Teeth grinding
• Acidic foods weakening the bond

Is a Lost Filling an Emergency?

A lost filling isn’t always an emergency, but it shouldn’t be ignored. Here’s when to call right away:

Immediate Emergency Signs:

• Severe pain at the site
• Sharp edges causing soft tissue damage
• Visible dark spot or cavity in the exposed area
• Extreme sensitivity making it difficult to eat or drink
• Signs of infection like swelling or pus

Can Wait a Few Days (But Still Schedule Soon):

• Minor discomfort without severe pain
• No sharp edges or soft tissue irritation
• Able to eat and drink without significant issues

Even if a lost filling doesn’t hurt, the exposed tooth is vulnerable. Bacteria can enter the space and cause decay or infection. The longer you wait, the more likely you’ll need more extensive treatment like a root canal instead of just replacing the filling.

What to Do Before Your Appointment

For a Cracked Tooth:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Take over-the-counter pain medication as directed
• Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth
• Don’t use the tooth to bite anything hard

For a Lost Filling:

• Rinse your mouth gently with warm water
• Cover the exposed area with sugar-free gum or dental cement (available at pharmacies) as a temporary measure
• Avoid sticky, hard, or very hot/cold foods
• Take pain relievers if needed
• Keep the area clean by gently brushing

How Dr. Rubel Treats Cracked Teeth and Lost Fillings

Cracked Teeth:

Treatment depends on the crack’s location and severity:

• Dental bonding for minor cracks
• Crowns to protect and strengthen cracked teeth
• Root canal if the crack reaches the pulp
• Extraction if the tooth is severely damaged beyond repair

Lost Fillings:

• Removal of any remaining filling material and decay
• Placement of a new filling (composite, amalgam, or gold)
• Crown placement if the cavity is large
• Root canal if decay has reached the nerve

Don’t Wait and Hope It Gets Better

Dental problems rarely resolve on their own. A small crack can worsen, and a lost filling leaves your tooth defenseless against decay. What starts as a simple filling replacement can turn into a root canal or extraction if left untreated.

Dr. Rubel and the Coral West Dental team can assess your situation, relieve your pain, and restore your tooth—but only if you call. When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution with your dental health.

Dealing with a cracked tooth or lost filling in Coralville? Don’t take chances with your smile. Contact Coral West Dental today to schedule an emergency evaluation with Dr. Rubel.