Did you know that tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body?
Even though the outer surface of your teeth is stronger than your bones, it’s still susceptible to chips and cracks. Biting down on hard food, teeth grinding, and brittleness of teeth all lead to a cracked tooth. A cracked tooth is when a crack goes from the chewing surface to the root. This is often seen in the back of your mouth, where chewing takes place.
Treating a cracked tooth early is vital in saving the tooth. Keep reading for signs of a cracked tooth and how to fix one.
Signs of a Cracked Tooth
It’s easy to spot a crack in a tooth, right?
Surprisingly, no. A crack is not always identifiable by the naked eye. Many cracks are hairline fractures that are difficult to see even on an x-ray. However, there are signs and symptoms to be aware of:
- More sensitivity – If you notice increased sensitivity when eating hot foods or drinking cold liquids, it’s possible you have a cracked tooth. Often, teeth will become more sensitive to sweet and sour foods as well.
- Sporadic pain – A cracked tooth will not present itself like an abscess or cavity. The pain is not constant or chronic; it will come and go.
- Pain while chewing or biting – If you notice pain when chewing certain foods, there’s a good chance you have a cracked tooth. Sometimes, the pain will not be present every time you eat, so it’s important to take note of when the pain starts and with what foods.
- Infection – If a cracked tooth is not caught in the early stages, it often leads to infection around the fracture. This infection will be around the gum line and look like a small lump.
Identifying a cracked tooth is tricky. If you experience pain in your teeth but do not see obvious signs of decay, book an appointment with your dentist to determine if you have an unseen fracture.
How to Fix a Cracked Tooth
Depending on the extent of the cracked tooth, each patient requires a different treatment plan. Those with a crack going beyond the surface often require a more invasive treatment like a root canal and crown. Once the dentist determines how a patient responds to those procedures, more treatment options are discussed.
Some of the most common treatments for a cracked tooth include:
- A dental crown for less severe cases to help cover the tooth and restore the damage.
- A root canal for more severe cases when the crack is deeper into the tooth.
- For the most severe cases, tooth extraction is performed. This is often the last case scenario, and if performed, then a dental implant will replace the natural tooth.
Dental Bonding is also an option whether you have gapped, chipped, or cracked teeth. When used for cracked teeth, the dentist roughens the tooth and adds a conditioning liquid. Then an ultraviolet light hardens the bonding and is shaped and polished to match your natural teeth.
Fix a Cracked Tooth at Dental Partners of Vero Beach
Depending on the location and severity of the cracked tooth, treatment plans will vary. Our professionals will determine which of the following treatment plans is best for your situation.
If you suspect a cracked tooth, contact us at 772-569-4118 to schedule a consultation. We will provide a thorough examination of your mouth and treat any issues we see.
