How Serious Is Cracked Tooth?
A cracked tooth may simply seem like a cosmetic issue, but—depending on the severity of the crack—it can actually be a major concern.
Below is helpful information about cracked teeth, how serious a cracked tooth is, and some potential repair options for a cracked tooth.
What Leads to Cracked Teeth?
There are a variety of different reasons for cracked teeth. Some of the most common include:
- Teeth grinding and clenching
- Chewing on hard objects
- Eating hard foods
- Trauma
- Age
How Serious Is a Cracked Tooth?
How serious a cracked tooth is varies depending on the severity of the crack. Some cracks are mild and need minor intervention. Others are very serious.
Some treatments for a cracked tooth include:
- Dental bonding: If the crack is minor, dental bonding may be enough. This involves the use of a tooth-colored resin to improve the cosmetic appearance of the tooth.
- Dental veneer: Dental veneers are generally cosmetic repairs as well, but they are intended to repair slightly more severe cracks. They involve the reshaping of the tooth, so they are a serious consideration.
- Dental crown: If a tooth has been severely cracked, a dental crown may be needed to address the issue. This involves the replacement of the entire crown of the tooth.
- Tooth extraction: Generally, your dentist will only recommend extraction if the tooth is damaged beyond repair. This is a last resort.
Symptoms to Look For
There are a few symptoms of a cracked tooth that you can look out for. These include:
- Visible damage to the tooth
- Sensitivity
- Pain when eating
- Persistent pain in the tooth
- Swelling
Sometimes cracks aren’t immediately visible. Make sure you visit your dentist if you notice any of those signs for a proper examination and diagnosis.
Prevention of a Cracked Tooth
There are a few things you can do to help prevent a cracked tooth.
If you suffer from bruxism (teeth clenching and grinding), make sure you purchase a mouthguard. Over-the-counter options are available, but it’s best if you can have a custom night guard created by a dentist for your specific mouth.
To keep your teeth healthy and strong, brush twice a day, floss, and rinse. Also, see your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup. During this checkup, your dentist can check for cracks or other forms of damage. From there, they can put together a treatment plan.
You can also crack your teeth on popcorn kernels, hard candy, and objects like pen caps. Don’t chew pen caps, ice, or other hard objects, as they can damage your teeth.
Reach Out Today
If you have a visibly cracked tooth or you believe you are suffering from a cracked tooth, reach out today to schedule an appointment. An outstanding dentist will perform an examination to determine if you have a cracked tooth, the severity of the crack, and what treatment options are available.