Emergency Care for Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth in Manhattan
A chipped, cracked, or broken tooth can happen in an instant — from a sports injury, accident, biting something hard, or even just normal wear. While not all breaks cause pain immediately, any damage to a tooth should be treated as a dental emergency. At Upper West Side Dental, we provide same-day emergency care to repair damage, relieve discomfort, and protect your smile from further complications.
Why Prompt Treatment Matters
Even a small chip can expose the inner layers of a tooth, leaving it vulnerable to infection or further fracture. Cracks and breaks can worsen quickly if left untreated, leading to:
- Increased pain and sensitivity
- Infection or abscess formation
- Difficulty eating or speaking
- Permanent tooth loss
Step-by-Step: What to Do If You Chip or Break a Tooth
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to keep the area clean.
- Save any broken pieces of the tooth, if possible, and bring them with you.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
- Control bleeding by gently biting on a piece of gauze if needed.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for comfort.
- Call Upper West Side Dental immediately for a same-day emergency appointment.
What to Expect During Your Emergency Visit
When you arrive at Upper West Side Dental, Dr. Shirley will begin with a careful examination of the damaged tooth and the surrounding tissues. If necessary, he will take digital X-rays to determine the full extent of the break or crack. Once the diagnosis is clear, our team will provide immediate care to stabilize the tooth and relieve your pain. Dr. Shirley will then explain your treatment options in detail and guide you step by step through the process. Our goal is always to protect the tooth whenever possible, prevent infection, and restore your smile’s function and appearance.
Treatment depends on the extent of the damage. Options may include:
- Dental Bonding – For small chips, tooth-colored resin restores shape and function.
- Dental Crown – A strong, protective covering for larger cracks or broken teeth.
- Veneers – A cosmetic option for visible front teeth with minor chips.
- Root Canal Therapy – If the pulp is exposed or infected, this saves the tooth and relieves pain.
- Extraction & Replacement – If the tooth cannot be saved, we remove it safely and discuss replacement options (implant, bridge, or partial denture).
Pediatric Dental Emergencies
Children are especially prone to chipped or broken teeth from sports, play, or accidental falls. Our team specializes in gentle pediatric emergency care — keeping kids calm, parents reassured, and teeth protected. We’ll also provide practical guidance on preventing future injuries, such as custom athletic mouthguards.
FAQs About Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth
Yes — even if it doesn’t hurt, a chip can worsen or expose the tooth to decay. It’s best to have it examined right away.
No. Once a tooth is cracked, it cannot heal naturally. Professional dental treatment is required to prevent further damage.
Lack of pain doesn’t mean the tooth is safe. Cracks and chips can lead to infections or bigger breaks over time.
Yes. Depending on the severity, we may smooth sharp edges, use bonding, or protect the tooth until it naturally falls out.
You should seek treatment immediately. Delaying care increases the risk of infection, pain, and tooth loss.
Don’t Delay — Protect Your Smile Today
A chipped or broken tooth won’t heal on its own. The sooner you get emergency care, the better your chances of saving the tooth and avoiding long-term complications.
📞 Call (917) 261-7555 or Book an Emergency Appointment Online now for same-day treatment at Upper West Side Dental.
Proudly serving the Upper West Side, Harlem, and Morningside Heights with trusted emergency dental care for children and adults.