That sharp pain when you bite down or a sudden sensitivity to your food can be unsettling. If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, you are likely wondering what can be done. The good news is that our team at Elevate Dental has several ways to help, depending on the type and severity of the crack.
Prompt care can help protect your tooth, relieve your discomfort, and restore your smile. A dental professional can assess the tooth and recommend a path forward that works for you. Addressing urgent dental issues quickly can help prevent further problems down the road.
Signs You Might Have a Cracked Tooth
Sometimes a crack is obvious, but other times it is so small you cannot see it. Along with sudden tooth sensitivity, your body may be sending other common dental warning signs that something is wrong. Pay attention if you experience any of the following:
- Pain that comes and goes, especially when you chew or bite
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Swelling in the gum around a specific tooth
- Discomfort that is difficult to pinpoint to one tooth
Common Treatments for a Cracked Tooth
A dentist will recommend a treatment based on the crack’s size, location, and depth. The goal is always to relieve discomfort and restore the tooth’s natural function through restorative dentistry. A dentist can assess your specific situation and discuss the options available to you.
Dental Bonding
For very small surface cracks that do not affect the tooth’s structure, a dentist may use a tooth-coloured resin to fill the crack. This procedure, known as dental bonding, can restore the tooth’s appearance and seal the crack from bacteria.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth, much like a helmet. It provides strength and protection when a crack is more significant. The crown holds the tooth together and prevents the crack from spreading further when you bite down.
Root Canal Therapy
If a crack extends deep into the tooth’s inner pulp, it can lead to infection and pain. Root canal therapy involves carefully cleaning the infected pulp from inside the tooth. After the area is cleaned, the tooth is sealed and often protected with a crown to improve strength and function, a common step after a root canal.
What to Expect at Your Dental Visit
Your appointment will start with a conversation about your symptoms. Our dental team will then conduct a careful examination of your tooth. This may involve a visual check, a biting test, or taking a dental X-ray to get a clear look at the tooth and its root. From there, our team can explain what they see and recommend a personalized plan for you.
When Is a Cracked Tooth Beyond Repair?
Most cracked teeth can be saved. However, in some situations, a tooth may not be fixable. This is often the case if the crack extends below the gum line or splits the tooth into 2 separate pieces. In these cases, a tooth extraction may be the best course of action to protect your oral health. Afterward, you can explore options for replacing a missing tooth.
Factors That Affect Your Treatment Plan & Timeline
Every cracked tooth is unique, so every treatment plan is too. Much like a chipped tooth, a crack cannot heal on its own and requires dental treatment to prevent complications. How a dentist addresses your tooth and how long it takes depends on a few key things:
- The type and location of the crack
- The severity of your symptoms
- The overall health of the affected tooth and the surrounding gums
A thorough exam helps our dental team determine the right approach to get you feeling comfortable again and smiling brightly.
Relief for Cracked Teeth Starts Here
A cracked tooth can be a source of worry, but you do not have to live with the discomfort. By seeking care, you can find a solution that fits your needs and helps you get back to your daily life without discomfort. Our team at Elevate Dental is committed to providing a compassionate and personalized experience. Contact us today to schedule a visit, and let’s elevate your smile together.
