Chipped and Cracked Teeth in Children — Germantown, MD
Kids are active, and chips and cracks happen. Whether from a fall, a sports collision, or biting something too hard, a cracked tooth needs prompt attention — even if your child isn’t in pain. At Children’s Dentistry of Germantown, we repair chipped and cracked teeth quickly and gently, restoring your child’s smile and protecting the tooth from further damage.
Is a Chipped Tooth a Dental Emergency?
It depends on the severity:
Minor chip — A small chip with no pain is not an emergency, but should be seen within a day or two. Sharp edges can cut the tongue and cheeks, and the exposed area can be sensitive.
Large chip or crack — If a significant portion of the tooth is broken off, or if your child is in pain or sensitivity, call us the same day.
Chip reaching the nerve — If the inner part of the tooth (pulp) is exposed, this is a dental emergency. Signs include severe pain, sensitivity to temperature, or a visible pink or red spot inside the broken tooth.
How We Repair Chipped and Cracked Teeth
Dental Bonding For minor to moderate chips, we use tooth-colored composite resin to rebuild the missing portion of the tooth. It’s shaped and polished to look completely natural — most parents can’t tell which tooth was repaired.
Dental Crown For more significant breaks, a crown may be needed to fully protect and restore the tooth’s structure and function.
Root Canal (if the nerve is affected) If the crack or chip has reached the tooth’s nerve, a pulpotomy (children’s root canal) may be needed before placing a crown. We explain everything clearly and make the process as comfortable as possible.
What to Do Right Away
- Rinse your child’s mouth gently with warm water
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of the face to reduce swelling
- Save any broken tooth fragments in a damp cloth or cup of milk
- Call us at (301) 540-5757
Book an Appointment in Germantown
Don’t wait on a chipped or cracked tooth. Call (301) 540-5757 or book online. Walk-ins welcome. Serving Germantown, Gaithersburg, Clarksburg, Rockville, and Montgomery County, MD.