A hairline crack is an incredibly small fracture on the surface of the tooth, which can lead to serious complications, including infections and tooth loss. For those reasons, immediate attention from a dentist is essential to protect your smile. While it’s often hard to see such a small fissure, consult the guide below to discover the signs that indicate your tooth sustained a hairline fracture. 

How to Tell You Have a Hairline Cracked Tooth

1. Hot & Cold Sensitivity

If a crack penetrates deeply enough, it can expose the nerves within the tooth. The interior tissue is highly sensitive, especially when it comes into contact with hot or cold temperatures. Sweet and spicy foods or drinks can also impact the nerves, causing shooting pain into the jaw. To avoid discomfort, stick with consuming room-temperature items until your appointment with the dentist.

2. Chewing Pain

Pain is common when dealing with a damaged tooth. However, unlike a chip or missing segment, a crack may only hurt when pressure is applied. As such, you may only experience pain when eating or chewing. Often, the painful feeling will lessen if you begin to chew food on the opposite side of your mouth. 

An over-the-counter pain reliever can help reduce the pain temporarily, along with eating soft foods and chewing with the other side of your mouth. However, the pain level is likely to increase, so prioritize a visit to the dentist as soon as possible. 

3. Swollen Gums

Fractures can also allow bacteria and germs to penetrate into the pulp of the tooth. Even with excellent oral health care practices at home, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing daily, fractures can lead to infections. Such situations can result in swelling, bleeding, and abscesses along the gums. 

With an infection, there’s always a risk that it can spread and impact more teeth, the jaw, and even the brain. As such, antibiotics are a common aspect of treatment, along with filling the crack or applying a crown to prevent more damage.

If you're suffering from any of these dental issues, contact Dr. Mead & Dr. Houston Dentistry in Mohave County, AZ, for dependable treatment. The trusted dentists and hygienists provide personalized solutions for a wide range of needs, from oral exams to tooth extractions. Review their extensive list of services online, and book an appointment today at (928) 855-5061.