Our teeth are an essential part of our daily life. Not only do they aid in eating and chewing, but they also play a significant role in our overall appearance and self-confidence. Therefore, taking good care of them and addressing any dental issues as soon as possible, especially cracked teeth, is essential. Cracked tooth syndrome can lead to severe dental problems and impact our quality of life. This blog post will discuss the symptoms, treatments, and prevention of cracked tooth syndrome.
What Are Cracked Teeth?
Let’s start by understanding what a cracked tooth is. A cracked tooth occurs when a tooth’s enamel, the protective outer layer, and the underlying dentin are damaged. This could happen for several reasons, including teeth grinding, tooth decay, or injury. The symptoms of a cracked tooth may vary from person to person, but some common ones include pain when biting or chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and occasional swelling of the gum line.
Causes of Cracked Teeth
Eating Hard Foods
Eating Hard FoodsIt is one of the most common causes of cracked teeth.
When you bite down on something hard, like a popcorn kernel or ice, you can put a lot of pressure on your tooth, which can crack. The same can happen if you chew on hard objects like pens or pencils.
To avoid breaking your teeth, take small bites and avoid chewing on anything that isn’t food.
Grinding Your Teeth
Another common cause of cracked teeth is grinding your teeth, which can happen while you’re sleeping or during the day. Grinding can wear down your tooth enamel, making your teeth more prone to cracks. If you think you might be grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist, who can recommend ways to protect your teeth and alleviate pain.
Trauma
Trauma to the mouth can also cause cracked teeth. This can happen during sports or accidents where teeth are hit or knocked out of place. If you experience any trauma to the mouth, see a dentist as soon as possible, as a cracked tooth can be a sign of more serious damage.
Weakened Teeth
Weakened teeth due to decay can increase your risk of a cracked tooth. Teeth weakened by decay can become brittle and break easily, especially if you bite down on something hard. If a tooth has a cavity, getting it treated before it progresses and causes a more serious issue is important.
Symptoms of Cracked Teeth
Pain When Chewing
A cracked tooth often causes pain when you bite or chew, mainly if the crack extends deep into the tooth structure. The pressure from biting may cause the crack to widen or the fractured tooth to shift within the gum line, leading to increased sensitivity or pain. The pain may also radiate to other teeth or the jaw. If you experience pain while chewing or biting, it is crucial to seek dental care immediately. Your dentist will perform a thorough tooth examination and may recommend treatment such as a dental filling or crown.
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold Temperatures
If you experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures when consuming food or drink, it may be a sign of a cracked tooth. Cracks may also cause the tooth enamel to become compromised, leading to exposed dentin and nerve endings, which can cause sensitivity. While tooth sensitivity may not always indicate a cracked tooth, it is crucial to inform your dentist, who can perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of this symptom.
Inconsistent Pain That Comes and Goes
The pain associated with cracked teeth may not always be consistent and can come and go, resulting in a delayed diagnosis. However, if you experience occasional pain, you must visit your dentist. Inconsistent pain can indicate a vertical root fracture, a severe crack involving the entire tooth root. Vertical root fractures require immediate dental attention and may lead to tooth extraction or root canal therapy.
Visible Crack or Chip in the Tooth
Cracked teeth may sometimes exhibit visible signs such as a crack or a chip in the chewing surface or the gum line. If you spot these signs, visit your dentist as soon as possible, as the crack may progress and cause severe damage to the tooth structure. The dentist will create a tooth diagnosis and recommend cracked tooth treatments such as a crown or dental implant.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Cracked Teeth
When visiting your dentist, they typically use X-rays and dental exams to identify the issue. X-rays can help find fractures in the root that are not visible from the surface. Dental exams can help identify cracks that are only visible in the enamel. Your dentist may use a magnifying glass or a special light to help inspect the tooth carefully. By combining these methods, dentists can comprehensively diagnose the problem and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
A dental filling or bonding may be the answer if the tooth crack is minor. This helps fill in any parts of the tooth that have been missing and restores the chewing surfaces. However, a crown or root canal may be necessary if the tooth crack is deep. A crown is used to cap the entire tooth and restore its strength. A root canal is done when the crack extends into the tooth’s nerve. This allows for removing the nerve so it doesn’t become infected or painful.
In more extreme cases, tooth extraction may be the only option. With vertical root fractures, the fracture line starts in the tooth’s root and extends upwards, making the tooth unsalvageable. In cases where the tooth is severely decayed, the tooth may need to be removed to avoid any further infection or spread of the decay. Extraction allows for a plan of action, such as dental implants to replace the missing tooth.
Connection Between Cavities and Cracked Teeth
One of the key ways cavities can lead to cracked teeth is through the weakening of the tooth enamel. When bacteria in your mouth produce acid that attacks your teeth, it can slowly eat away at your enamel and create cavities. But even before the hole becomes large enough to cause pain or sensitivity, the tooth can be more vulnerable to physical stress. If you bite down on something hard or experience trauma to your tooth, it’s more likely to crack or fracture. This is particularly true for teeth that have already been filled, as the filling material can make the tooth more brittle.
It’s important to note that not every cracked tooth is caused by cavities, but they are certainly one of the most common culprits. When a tooth fractures, it can cause a range of issues depending on the severity of the crack. In some cases, the crack may be superficial and only affect the tooth’s chewing surface. In others, it may extend down to the gum line, which can be painful and even lead to a tooth abscess. In the worst cases, the crack may extend through the tooth to the root, which can lead to the need for a root canal or tooth extraction.
Prevention of Cracked Teeth and Cavities
Avoiding Hard Foods and Ice
One of the easiest ways to prevent cracked teeth is to avoid eating hard foods such as popcorn kernels, candy, or ice cubes. These types of foods can cause damage to the tooth enamel and increase the risk of developing a cracked tooth. If you decide to chew ice or hard foods, try chewing on the side of your mouth instead of the front or chewing surface. Additionally, avoid using your teeth to open packaging or bottles, as these actions can also lead to damage.
Wearing a Mouthguard While Playing Sports or Grinding Teeth
Sports-related injuries are one of the leading causes of tooth fractures and breaks. Wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth while playing sports. In addition, teeth grinding or clenching can also lead to cracked teeth. If you suffer from bruxism, consult your dentist about getting a custom-fitted mouthguard to help prevent damage.
Regular Brushing and Flossing
Regular Brushing and FlossingBrushing and flossing your teeth twice daily is one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities.
You can help prevent decay and other dental issues by removing plaque and bacteria from the teeth.
Brush your teeth for at least two minutes each time, and use dental floss to clean between the teeth and along the gum line.
Seeing a Dentist for Regular Check-Ups and Cleanings
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. During a dental exam, your dentist can detect any signs of tooth decay or cracking and recommend treatments to prevent further damage. Regular cleanings can also help remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to cavities and gum disease.
Conclusion
Cracked tooth syndrome is not to be taken lightly. It is essential to seek proper dental care and a timely diagnosis to prevent further damage. Several treatments are available, depending on the extent of the damage, and prevention is always better than cure. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene and being mindful of your dental health is the key to keeping your teeth strong and healthy. If you suspect that you have a cracked tooth, it’s important to seek dental care as soon as possible. It’s always better to catch the issue early and prevent it from worsening. Our dentists at Port Macquarie Dental Centre can perform a thorough tooth diagnosis to determine the extent of the damage and recommend the appropriate cracked tooth treatments. Contact us today on (02) 6105 9853 to book your first appointment.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
The Obvious and the Obscure: Steps for Crack Detection and Confirmation
https://www.aae.org/specialty/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2017/07/ltfbonusmaterial_c.pdf
Cracked Tooth Syndrome
https://medical.mit.edu/sites/default/files/crackedtooth.pdf