Symptoms of Cracked Tooth
A cracked tooth is more prevalent in older adults. Treatment may vary from doing nothing at all to a simple bonding procedure, a dental crown, a root canal, or an extraction.
The proper treatment and the ability to restore and retain the tooth depend on the severity, how far the crack has advanced, and other circumstances.
The successful treatment for your cracked tooth will depend on early detection and the proper treatment. If you think you could have a cracked tooth, see your dentist soon.
What is a Cracked Tooth?
A cracked tooth may take different forms, from a tiny craze line only in the outer enamel of the tooth to a serious fracture that progresses down into the root.
Many cracks are often difficult to see. X-rays may not even identify them, so other methods of diagnosis will need to be used. Cracks can occur in all teeth, but are more frequent in molars or a tooth with a large filling.
Cracks are not preventable, yet they can be the result of biting something hard. The habit of grinding and clenching is also a frequent source.
How Do You Know if Your Tooth is Cracked?
A cracked tooth can present symptoms, but are difficult to clarify. A cracked tooth could cause some pain or discomfort while biting or chewing, as well as increased sensitivity to heat or cold. The pain might come and go intermittently.
You could see a light brown line or some discoloration running vertically on the tooth. If you experience any signs or symptoms, make a dental appointment soon. If neglected, a cracked tooth can lead to both disease and infection.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of a Cracked Tooth
The symptoms of a cracked tooth will vary depending on the type and severity. Because of the inconsistency of symptoms, and the crack is not immediately evident, even with x-rays, your dentist could have difficulty determining the specific cause. Frequent symptoms are:
- Pain while chewing- With a cracked tooth, you can experience intermittent discomfort or pain when chewing. This pain is even more evident when biting down. The pain can range from mild to severe. The pain can also come and go and even be difficult to locate.
- Intermittent pain- A cracked tooth quite often does not create a constant ache. Pain is most often present with either chewing or temperature change. Depending on the depth of the crack and the possible exposure of any soft tissue pulp, intermittent pain can occur even without chewing.
- Temperature and taste sensitivity- A cracked tooth may experience sensitivity to hot and cold, and sometimes even sweets. Sensitivity may feel like mild throbbing.
- Infection- A cracked tooth left untreated can easily result in an infection in the pulp. This now requires immediate treatment since the infection can spread. Besides swelling, you might notice increased pain, fever, tender glands, and bad breath.
- Gum swelling- Gum swelling is a quite common symptom of a cracked tooth and will occur around the fracture. Swelling can be tender to the touch, and redness is also possible. Swelling often means that the crack has advanced to the soft pulp, resulting in an infection.
If you believe you have a cracked tooth, see your dentist as soon as possible. The sooner you get it examined and treated, the more favorable a successful outcome. A cracked tooth can function normally for years if treated promptly.