Detecting and Treating a Cracked Tooth
If you’re experiencing pain when biting into food or if your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, you may have a cracked tooth, a condition known as cracked tooth syndrome. Your trusted team at High Street Dentistry will determine the cause of your discomfort and provide the needed relief. You can always expect outstanding, gentle care.
What Causes Cracked Tooth Syndrome?
A cracked tooth usually results from biting down on hard foods or objects, abrupt temperature changes, and teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism). It can also develop due to wear and tear and the natural aging process. Cracked tooth syndrome is a common condition that isn’t caused by a lack of oral hygiene.
What Are Warning Signs of Cracked Tooth Syndrome?
The symptoms of a tooth crack may vary greatly depending on the extent and location of the damage. Patients often report pain that comes and goes, sensitivity to temperature extremes or sweet substances, gum swelling, erratic pain, and discomfort that’s not easy to pinpoint. In some cases, a crack can affect the tooth’s roots, resulting in jaw pain.
How Is Cracked Tooth Syndrome Diagnosed?
Cracked tooth syndrome is often challenging to diagnose. We will evaluate your symptoms and carefully examine your teeth and gums to identify fractures or gum swelling. We may ask you to bite down and then release the pressure to pinpoint the source of pain. A dental dye can also help make any hairline cracks or tooth fractures visible, allowing us to make a diagnosis.
Dental x-rays don’t always reveal hairline cracks. However, they may identify tooth pulp problems, suggesting a tooth crack. Our team will consider all your symptoms and our examination results to diagnose your condition.
How Is Cracked Tooth Syndrome Treated?
Treatment options for cracked teeth will depend on the location of the damage and its extent. In some cases, treating the affected tooth may only require a dental filling or crown to alleviate the discomfort and prevent further damage. However, if the crack has extended into the inner pulp, you’ll need root canal therapy and a crown to prevent the fracture from spreading.
If a crack extends below the gum line, we may have no option but to extract the affected tooth. If that’s the case, we may recommend replacing it with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture to prevent complications resulting from missing a tooth.
Quality Dental Care Near Me
If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, contact High Street Dentistry in Jefferson City, MO, for an appointment right away. Neglecting to treat cracked tooth syndrome may progressively worsen the condition, eventually resulting in tooth loss. We look forward to relieving your discomfort and restoring your healthy smile. Call us and schedule your appointment today.