A cracked tooth is one of the trickier dental problems, because it does not always announce itself. Sometimes it sends a sharp jolt when you bite, and sometimes it causes no pain at all. Either way, a crack tends to grow, so knowing the symptoms and acting early can be the difference between saving the tooth and losing it.
Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a cracked tooth often shows up as:
- Sharp pain when you bite down, and sometimes a jolt as you release.
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Pain that comes and goes rather than staying constant.
- No symptoms at all, in some cases, which is why cracks are often found at routine checkups.
A crack is different from a chip. A chip breaks off a visible piece of the tooth, while a crack can run into the tooth where you cannot see it. If a piece has broken off instead, see our guide on how a dentist can fix a chipped tooth.
What Causes a Cracked Tooth
Cracks usually come from force or wear over time. Common causes include:
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Biting hard foods like ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels
- Large fillings that leave less natural tooth structure
- Normal age-related wear
- A blow to the mouth from sports or an accident
Why a Cracked Tooth Needs Prompt Treatment
A crack is a doorway. Left alone, it can let bacteria reach the pulp inside the tooth, which can lead to a painful infection or abscess that spreads to the jaw. And even with care, cracks can keep growing or split the tooth entirely, so the sooner it is treated, the more likely the tooth can be saved.
Cracked Tooth Treatment Options
Treatment depends on how deep the crack runs:
- Minor cracks: dental bonding or smoothing can seal and protect the surface.
- Moderate cracks: a dental crown caps the tooth and holds it together.
- Deeper cracks: a root canal removes damaged pulp, followed by a crown.
- Severe cracks: if the crack reaches below the gumline, the tooth may need to be removed and replaced.
If you feel a sharp twinge when you bite or a tooth is suddenly sensitive, do not wait it out. If you are in the Boynton Beach area, Fancy Smiles Dental Studio can find the crack, tell you how deep it goes, and save the tooth whenever possible. Schedule a visit as soon as you can.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?
No. Unlike bone, a tooth cannot repair a crack, and the crack tends to grow. It needs a dentist to seal, cap, or otherwise treat it.
2. How do I know if my tooth is cracked or just sensitive?
Cracks often cause a sharp, brief pain when biting or releasing, and it may come and go. A dentist can confirm with an exam, a bite test, and imaging.
3. Is a cracked tooth a dental emergency?
It can be, especially with severe pain, swelling, or a piece that has broken off. Even without pain, prompt care gives the tooth the best chance.
4. Will a cracked tooth need a crown?
Often, yes. A crown is a common fix because it holds the tooth together and protects it from the crack spreading. Deeper cracks may need a root canal first.
5. How can I prevent cracked teeth?
Avoid chewing ice and hard candy, wear a night guard if you grind, use a mouth guard for sports, and keep up with checkups so small cracks are caught early.