While teeth are made of the hardest material that can be found in the body, they can become damaged due to decay or injury. These cracks occur when vertical or horizontal lines develop across the surface of the tooth, sometimes below the gumline. Proper dental care is required to treat cracked teeth because they can have a negative impact on oral health. Here is what you should know.

How Do Cracked Teeth Affect Oral Health?

Cracked teeth have a number of causes, including teeth grinding, chewing on tough food, aging, weakening from large fillings, and mouth or jaw trauma. Damage can vary in severity, though all types can cause oral health problems in addition to pain and discomfort. 

Craze lines are shallow hairline fractures in a tooth's outer enamel. They are painless but can be unsightly and might worsen over time. A cracked tooth has a vertical line running from the biting surface toward the root. With a cracked cuspid, a corner of the tooth typically breaks off. A split tooth, meanwhile, is fractured into two parts. 

Without proper dental care and treatment, cracked teeth are more susceptible to plaque formation and gum disease. More serious cracks allow in bacteria that can damage gums and nerve roots. Infected abscesses may form, which can lead to significant pain and tooth loss. Additionally, oral health is inextricably tied to your overall health. Gum disease and tooth decay have been linked to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, respiratory illnesses, and other conditions. 

What Dental Solutions Are Available?

If you have a cracked tooth, you should consult a dentist at your earliest convenience. They can recommend the best course of treatment, depending on the type and severity of the crack. Craze lines generally don't require treatment, but their appearance can be alleviated with teeth whitening. They can be checked during routine appointments to ensure they don't develop into cracks.

For more serious cracks, your dentist may suggest bonding, fillings, veneers, or crowns. If the fracture has reached the pulp, you may need a surgical procedure like a root canal in order to save the tooth. In cases where these solutions are viable, the dentist may perform an extraction and replace the tooth with a dental implant. 

When you need dental care for a cracked tooth or another issue, turn to Nicholas J. Hurley, D.D.S., P.A., in Thomasville, NC. The dentist and staff provide general, cosmetic, and family dentistry services in a comfortable, relaxed environment. In addition to regular dental care and cleanings, Dr. Hurley specializes in more advanced treatments, such as composite fillings, root canals, and periodontal disease treatment. Call (336) 476-1109 to make an appointment, or visit their website for more information about the office.