Your molars do a lot of heavy lifting, literally. They’re your main grinding teeth, so when something’s wrong with one of them, chances are you’ll feel it. A broken or cracked molar is considered a dental emergency, and while it can be tempting to wait and see if it settles down on its own, it’s worth getting checked sooner rather than later.
What causes a broken molar?
There are a few common culprits:
- Biting down on something hard
- A knock or accident
- Tooth decay that’s weakened the enamel
- A filling or crown that’s come loose
- Teeth grinding
- A tooth that was already weakened or sensitive
Signs to look out for
Symptoms can range from mild to quite uncomfortable, including:
- Discomfort when biting down, especially if pressure is applied directly to the affected tooth
- A dull, ongoing ache that doesn’t settle
- Swelling or a small bump near the gum, which can be a sign of infection
- Persistent bad breath, often linked to bacteria building up around the damage
Why it’s worth acting on
A minor crack that’s ignored can often worsen over time, and the discomfort tends to increase rather than go away on its own. There’s also a real risk of infection if bacteria find their way into the damaged area, so it’s best not to leave it too long before getting it looked at.
What to do in the meantime
Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, rinse gently with warm water, and use a cold compress if there’s any swelling. Over-the-counter pain relief can help manage discomfort until you’re seen, but it’s not a substitute for a proper assessment.
What treatment might involve
- Fillings for smaller chips or cracks
- Crowns for more extensive damage, capping the tooth to keep it structurally sound
- Root canal treatment if the crack has reached the inner pulp of the tooth
- Extraction, in cases where the tooth is damaged beyond repair
Your dentist will only know which of these applies to you after an examination, so it’s not something we can diagnose from a description alone. If you’re dealing with a suspected dental emergency, getting in quickly gives you the most options.
What to do next
A cracked or broken molar is worth having looked at sooner rather than later, not to alarm you, but because it is usually simpler to treat early. Contact the practice and describe what’s happened. We’ll tell you honestly how urgent it is and find you a time. Feel better when something hurts.
