Think You Have a Cracked Tooth? Here’s What You Should Know

A cracked tooth isn’t always obvious, and the symptoms can sometimes come and go. Maybe you felt a sharp pain when biting into something. Maybe one tooth suddenly seems more sensitive to hot or cold. Or perhaps something just doesn’t feel quite right when you chew.

But even a small crack is worth having checked by your dentist.

At Calvert Dentistry, we want patients to understand what their symptoms may be telling them and feel comfortable seeking care before the problem becomes more complicated.

How Does a Tooth Become Cracked?

Your teeth are incredibly strong, but they’re not indestructible. Cracks can develop for several reasons, including:

• Biting down on hard foods or objects
• Grinding or clenching your teeth
• An injury to the mouth
• Large or older fillings that leave less natural tooth structure
• Normal wear over time
• Sudden pressure placed on a tooth

Sometimes you know exactly when something happened. Other times, a crack may develop gradually without a single obvious cause.

How Can You Know if Your Tooth is Cracked?

Cracked teeth don’t always cause constant pain, which can make them difficult to recognize on your own.

Some common warning signs include:

• Pain when biting or chewing
• Sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet foods
• Discomfort that seems to come and go
• Tenderness around a particular tooth
• Swelling around the gums
• A tooth that suddenly feels different when you bite

You may also have a crack without experiencing noticeable symptoms. Which is just one reason regular dental exams are so valuable.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait for the Pain to Get Worse

It’s tempting to wait and see if occasional tooth sensitivity or discomfort goes away on its own. Unfortunately, a cracked tooth cannot repair itself.

Depending on where the crack is located and how far it extends, bacteria may eventually reach the inside of the tooth. The crack can also grow larger as you continue biting and chewing.

Having the tooth evaluated earlier gives your dentist an opportunity to determine what’s happening and discuss your treatment options before the damage potentially becomes more extensive.

How Do You Treat a Cracked Tooth?

There isn’t one treatment that’s right for every cracked tooth. Your dentist will consider the location and severity of the crack, the condition of the tooth and whether the inner portion of the tooth has been affected.

Treatment may include options such as dental bonding or a filling for minor damage. For a tooth that needs additional strength and protection, a dental crown may be recommended. A crown covers the damaged tooth, helping restore its shape and function while protecting the remaining tooth structure.

If a crack extends into the pulp of the tooth, root canal treatment may be necessary to remove damaged or infected tissue before the tooth is restored. In more severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, a tooth extraction may be recommended.

The important thing is not to assume the worst. Having the tooth examined is the best way to understand what you’re dealing with and what can be done to help.

Can You Prevent a Cracked Tooth?

Not every cracked tooth can be prevented, but a few everyday habits can help protect your smile.

Avoid chewing on ice, pens and other hard objects that put unnecessary pressure on your teeth. If you grind or clench your teeth, particularly while sleeping, talk with your dentist about whether a night guard could help.

Wearing a mouthguard during sports and other activities where your teeth could be injured can also provide valuable protection.

And, of course, keep up with your regular dental checkups. Routine exams allow your dental team to monitor your teeth, existing dental work and bite for changes that could increase your risk of damage.

Concerned About a Tooth? We’re Here to Help

You don’t need to diagnose a cracked tooth yourself. If a tooth hurts when you chew, suddenly becomes sensitive or simply feels different, that’s enough reason to have it checked. At Calvert Dentistry, we use comprehensive exams and advanced technology to better understand what’s happening with your smile and recommend treatment based on your individual needs.

Our goal is to help you feel informed and comfortable with your care, whether you need a simple solution or more comprehensive restorative treatment.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain or think you may have cracked or damaged a tooth, don’t wait for the discomfort to become more severe.

Schedule an appointment online with Calvert Dentistry in Prince Frederick, MD. Our team is here to help you get back to eating, speaking and smiling comfortably.