Why Do Teeth Crack?

Your teeth are strong, but like any bone in the body, they can become damaged. Biting down on hard foods like a popcorn kernel or ice, or suffering an accident that causes a direct impact on a tooth can result in a crack. Chronic grinding and clenching of the teeth and wear and tear due to an improper bite can also lead to cracking over time.  

Is It Possible to Prevent Cracked Teeth?

Cracks caused by accidents are generally unavoidable, but you can take steps to protect yourself from other causes of cracking. Use caution when eating popcorn, hard candies, and fruits and olives with pits and seeds. Don't chew ice, and always wear a protective mouth guard when you play sports. If you grind your teeth at night, wearing a night guard can help to reduce stress on your teeth. If you have missing teeth that cause you to chew on one side of your mouth, contact our office to learn more about tooth replacement with dental implants, which can help to improve your bite and reduce your risk of cracking otherwise healthy teeth.

Is My Tooth Cracked?

When a crack is severe, you can often spot it with the naked eye, but minor cracks may not be visible. Some symptoms that indicate a crack could be present include:
  
• Chronic pain in a single tooth

• Sensitivity to heat and cold

• Pain when you eat a sour, sweet, or sticky food

• Discomfort when chewing 
  
Our Endodontic offices use state-of-the-art imaging systems and microscopes to determine whether or not you have a cracked tooth.  

How Is a Cracked Tooth Treated?

Cracked teeth can be treated in a number of ways, treatment plans that include endodontics have a very high success rate. We will partner with your dentist to perform a comprehensive treatment on the affected tooth that begins with a root canal to remove infected pulp and immediately alleviate pain and discomfort. Then, your dentist can bond the tooth and place a crown over top to preserve it.  

What Do I Do if I Cracked My Tooth?

If you know that you cracked a tooth, or suspect that your tooth may be damaged, contact us today to schedule your consultation.