A cracked tooth can happen from a variety of different reasons and when you least expect it. Dentists are trained and be able to quickly and effectively repair broken teeth.

Clenching of the jaw, grinding your teeth and chewing on hard objects like candy, nuts or ice can damage the tooth’s enamel over time and cause cracks in the teeth. The pulp located inside the tooth contains blood vessels and nerves. The American Association of Endodontists (AAE) reports that patients can experience significant pain when a tooth is cracked. One common sign of a cracked tooth involves experiencing sharp and sudden pain while eating. This can be particularly painful when food is especially hot or cold. It is also possible to not even be aware that you have a cracked tooth.

Patients with a cracked tooth might notice discomfort or sensitivity when biting into something or chewing their food. In severe cases, the tooth will consistently hurt. This can be especially uncomfortable when the crack is located close to the gums or when the tooth is loose. There are many different types of cracked teeth and also various treatment options available. The treatment may involve something simple such as a crown, or in some extreme cases, require the complete removal of the tooth.

A cracked tooth differs somewhat from a chipped tooth. Dentists and dental hygienists are able to identify a chipped tooth using a dental tool which is called an “explorer”. This is used when they examine the teeth. It is also possible that some patients may identify a chip if they feel a rough surface on the tooth. If the dentist is not able to identify a chip using the explorer, the damage is likely considered to be superficial and does not require any treatment.

If your tooth has cracked, it is important to contact your dentist right away. The repair of a broken tooth should never be delayed, as prompt treatment can help preserve the tooth. By waiting to repair a cracked tooth, patients increase the risk of infection in the tooth's pulp. The infection can easily spread to the gum and bone below the tooth. If you are unable to visit your dentist in a timely manner, it is especially important to continue practicing good oral hygiene. You should be extra gentle with brushing and flossing to help avoid causing additional damage to the tooth.

Once your dentist can evaluate the damaged tooth, they are able to determine the best treatment option. Properly treating a cracked tooth depends the extent of the damage. If a relatively small piece of the tooth is chipped, the dentist may be able to use a filling or bonding to restore the tooth. The tooth can typically be salvaged if only a small piece is cracked off. This allows your dentist to place a crown over the cracked tooth in order to protect the healthy tooth which remains. Endodontic surgery may be required to remove a fractured portion of the tooth. In cases which are severe, the crack can extend all the way down to the pulp. If the pulp is damaged, the dentist may need to perform a root canal or extract the tooth.

Acting quickly can affect what treatment options are available and help to preserve the tooth. It is vital to contact your dentist right away for the best possible outcome.

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