Cracked teeth can be caused by a sudden injury, but they can also seem to come from nowhere. A cracked tooth can be extremely painful, but some patients don’t experience any symptoms at all. Knowing the symptoms of cracked teeth and when to see a dentist can help preserve your smile and prevent further damage.

The Types of Tooth Cracks

Small cracks in the enamel of a tooth, known as craze lines, don’t produce symptoms and usually require no treatment. Fractures of the cusp, which typically occur around fillings, are also usually painless since they don’t affect the soft pulp inside the tooth.

Vertical cracks through the tooth are often painful, especially when eating hard or crunchy food. Fortunately, cracks that don’t extend below the gumline can usually be repaired by a dentist. Teeth with cracks below the gumline, however, will probably need to be extracted.

Traumatic facial injuries can cause vertical root fractures, leaving cracks that begin below the gumline. While this damage is usually symptom-free, the tooth will likely need to be extracted, especially if the injury becomes infected.

Treating Cracked Teeth

A skilled dentist may be able to use a plastic resin to fill and repair cracks above the gumline. If only the cusp is damaged, a dentist may fit you with a crown, a porcelain or ceramic prosthetic that fits over the tooth. With proper care, these treatments are extremely effective and may last a lifetime.

Severely damaged teeth with cracks below the gumline will often need to be extracted. However, in some cases a dentist may be able to save a tooth with a root canal. This treatment involves removing damaged pulp and reinforcing the tooth to prevent further harm.

How to Prevent Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth aren’t always preventable, especially those related to sports injuries or accidents. However, not chewing on hard items like unpopped kernels, ice, or pens minimizes the wear and tear that can cause cracks.

Grinding or clenching your jaw can also result in cracked teeth. If you have a habit of grinding your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend wearing a mouth guard to bed. These appliances are custom-made to fit your mouth, so they’re usually comfortable enough to sleep in.

Whether you’ve cracked a tooth or just need a check-up, C.R. Sfeir D.D.S., General Dentistry offers the care you need in a relaxing environment. They’ve been serving patients throughout Lorain County for over 20 years, providing everything from routine cleanings to root canals. Visit their website for more on their services, or call (440) 960-5200 to make a dentist appointment today.