There are many reasons why teeth crack. In some cases, a cracked tooth might happen suddenly and cause pain, while in others, symptoms can develop slowly over time. Whatever the cause, dental trauma should never be ignored. Use the guide below for common symptoms and treatments for cracked teeth.

What Are the Symptoms?

Cracked teeth typically develop as a result of frequent or repetitive force that compromises the structure of your teeth, resulting in minor fractures that worsen over time. Some tooth cracks may cause little to no pain, though most cases result in discomfort when chewing or biting down.

Sudden cases of dental trauma, occurring as a result of biting down on a hard substance like hard candy or popcorn kernels, typically result in immediate and severe pain, usually in your molars. Other symptoms include sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, as well as localized pain and swelling around the gums in the affected tooth.

How Is It Treated?

Treatments typically depend on the severity of the damage. For instance, craze lines, or small, superficial cracks in the teeth, don't usually require treatment.

For more severe cases, such as fractured cuspids, cracks below the gumline, vertical root fractures, and split teeth, restorative dental treatments are recommended to relieve pain and prevent further damage.

There are a variety of treatments available, including dental crowns made of resin, ceramic, or metal, which hold your existing tooth together and restore its natural shape and function. Some dentists apply dental bonding, which is used to fill noticeable cracks, and root canal therapy, which removes infected and inflamed roots. If cracks are the result of extreme decay, trauma, or injury, and the tooth is considered unsavable, your dentist may recommend an extraction. In these situations, a dental implant is typically used to replace the lost tooth.

If you're experiencing tooth pain or dental trauma, visit Grassi & Grassi, PC in Rochester, NY. For over 40 years, their staff has provided comprehensive endodontic treatments with a dedication to gentle and compassionate care. As the longest-running endodontic practice in Monroe County, their experienced team has a reputation for excellence. Call (585) 424-1111 to schedule an appointment or visit the practice online to learn more about services.