Why Broken Teeth Are the #1 Holiday Dental Emergency

November 19, 2025

Thanksgiving is built around family, football, and one massive feast. Unfortunately, as your trusted emergency dentist in Sunnyvale, CA, our team at Mint Dental Care sees one dental disaster spike every year: broken, chipped, and cracked teeth

Why does the happiest meal of the year lead to so many urgent dental calls? It all comes down to hidden hazards and powerful chewing. 

The Culprits: Hard Foods That Cause Holiday Pain 

The most common cause of a cracked or broken tooth on Thanksgiving is biting down on something too hard. 

Hazard 

The Risk

Hard Nuts & Shells

The hidden shell piece in the pecan pie or biting down on an uncracked walnut is a frequent culprit for cracking a tooth or dislodging a filling.

Hidden 

Bones

A bone fragment in the turkey can create enough force to chip or fracture weakened enamel.

Old Dental 

Work

Sticky toffee, caramel, or chewy candies often have the power to pull out compromised fillings or crowns.


 

What to Do IMMEDIATELY if You Crack a Tooth 

A cracked tooth is a genuine dental emergency that requires professional care, but quick action can help reduce pain until you reach our Sunnyvale dental office.

Step 

How to Stabilize at Home

1. Rinse 

Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the area and remove any food fragments.

2. Control 

Swelling

Apply a cold compress or a bag of frozen vegetables, wrapped in a cloth, to the outside of your cheek near the injury for 15-20 minutes. This reduces swelling and pain.

3. Protect the Tooth

If the cracked or chipped edge is sharp, cover it temporarily with a piece of dental wax (available at most pharmacies) or a piece of sugar-free gum to prevent cuts to your tongue or cheek.

4. Manage 

Pain

Take over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or 

acetaminophen, as directed. Do not put aspirin directly on the tooth or gums.

5. Save 

Fragments

If a piece of the tooth broke off, retrieve it, place it in a small container of milk, and bring it with you.


 

Prevention is the Best Thanksgiving Recipe 

Avoid an unexpected trip to the emergency dentist in Sunnyvale with these preventative tips: 

  • Mind Your Bites: Chew slowly and carefully, especially when eating anything crunchy or with nuts. 
  • Use the Right Tools: Never use your teeth to crack nuts, open packages, or tear off price tags. Keep nutcrackers and scissors handy! 
  • Schedule a Pre-Holiday Checkup: If you have an old filling, a sensitive tooth, or a loose crown, address it before the holidays. Don't let a small issue turn into a major Thanksgiving dental emergency

Don't let a hard pecan or hidden bone ruin your holiday. If you suffer a broken tooth or severe pain, the compassionate team at Mint Dental Care is ready to help! 

We wish all our patients in Sunnyvale, CA, a safe and pain-free Thanksgiving!

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