When You Have a Cracked Tooth

For patients with a cracked tooth, they experience a variety of symptoms from sharp, occasional pain and aching to tooth sensitivity. Because symptoms vary from patient to patient, it may be difficult to determine if you have a cracked tooth. Thus, dental professionals suggest scheduling an appointment right away, even if your symptoms are mild. Without question, the outcome of your cracked tooth depends on the type of tooth, where it’s located, the severity of damage, and early treatment.

To better understand, consider the components of your tooth. Located beneath the outer enamel and tough layer of dentin is the pulp, which is the innermost layer of a tooth. Containing nerves and blood vessels, the pulp can become irritated when outer layers of a tooth are cracked. Yet, discomfort is usually intermittent, as chewing and biting down moves pieces of the cracked portion of the tooth that is above the pulp. With early intervention, the cracked portion can usually be restored. Yet, when treatment is delayed or when the individual is unaware that they have a cracked tooth, the pulp can be damaged beyond the point of repair. As this happens, pain will become more persistent, as tooth sensitivity increases.

It’s important to understand that treatment for most chipped teeth is straightforward, and may include applying a tooth-colored filling, dental bonding, or a crown. Yet, unlike broken or cracked bones, a tooth fracture does not fuse or heal completely. Thus, the purpose of treatment such as a crown, for instance, is to provide protection against pain and worsening of the crack. The prognosis for most cracked teeth that receive treatment is good, as they continue to function comfortably for many years.

As part of preventative dental care, patients learn about ways to protect their teeth from cracking. Perhaps you’ve heard your dentist say not to chew on ice, popcorn kernels, pencils, or pens. Maybe you’ve been instructed to wear a mouth guard for sports activities or during the night if you clench or grind your teeth. Sure—it’s impossible to fully prevent damage to your teeth, but there are ways to ensure that your teeth are less susceptible to cracking.

Your Top Patient Rated Dentist for 2017

Welcome to Lawrenceville Family Dental Care, your Top Patient Rated Dentist for 2017. Dr. Ashish Patel and staff take great pride in providing patients with individualized care, whether they are visiting our office for a checkup, emergency dental care, or cosmetic treatment. Do you suspect that you have a cracked tooth? Do not delay. We welcome your call today!

Posted on behalf of Lawrenceville Family Dental Care