Fix Cracked Teeth

A cracked tooth can happen when you least expect it and without warning There are a variety of reasons the teeth crack. Fortunately, your dentist is trained and able to quickly repair the tooth.

Over time, clenching the jaw, grinding teeth and chewing on hard objects such as candy or ice can damage the tooth’s enamel and cause a crack in the tooth. The pulp inside the tooth contains nerves and blood vessels. According to the American Association of Endodontists (AAE), patients can experience pain if the tooth contains a crack. A common sign of a cracked tooth includes sudden pain when eating. This can be especially prevalent if the food is particularly hot or cold. It is possible, however, to not know you have a cracked tooth.

Patients who have a cracked tooth may notice sensitivity or discomfort when they bite into something or chew their food. In severe cases, the tooth will consistently hurt. It can be especially uncomfortable near the gums if the tooth segment is loose. There are various types of cracked teeth and different treatment options which are available. The treatment can be as simple as a crown, and in extreme cases, require the removal of the tooth.

A cracked tooth is different from a chipped tooth. Dentists and hygienists are able to identify a chip in the tooth by using a dental tool called an “explorer” when they examine the teeth. Patients may also identify a chip when they feel a rough surface on the tooth. If the dentist is not able to find a chip with the explorer tool, the damage is superficial and it does not require treatment.

Contact your dentist right away to let them know if your tooth has cracked. Repair of a broken tooth should not be delayed. When patients wait to repair a cracked tooth, they increase their risk of infection in the tooth's pulp. The infection can spread to the gum and bone under the tooth. If you are not able to see your dentist right away, be sure to follow your normal oral hygiene routine. Use extra caution with brushing and flossing to ensure you do not cause more damage to the tooth.

Once the dentist is able to evaluate at the damaged tooth, they can determine the best treatment option. Properly treating a cracked tooth is dependent on how extensive it is damaged. If a small piece of enamel or filling has chipped away, you may only need a new filling or some bonding in order to restore the tooth. Part of the tooth can likely be salvaged if just a small piece cracked off. This allows your dentist to place a crown over the tooth to protect the remaining healthy tooth. Endodontic surgery may also be required in order to remove the fractured portion. In severe cases, the crack may extend down into the pulp. If the pulp is damaged, a root canal or tooth extraction may be necessary.

Acting quickly can impact your treatment options and ability to preserve a cracked tooth. It is critical to contact your dentist immediately to ensure the best possible outcome.

More on Fixing Problem Teeth : Fixing Chipped Teeth