Reviewed by Dr. Tiffany Deaton
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Reading time: three minutes
A cracked tooth is not always easy to identify. Symptoms may come and go, making it tempting to ignore the problem. However, even a small crack can worsen over time, so it is important to recognize the signs early and have the tooth evaluated.
With two convenient locations in Summerville, Deaton Dental Associates and Flowertown Dentistry provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages.
Table of Contents
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth?
The signs and symptoms of a cracked tooth can vary depending on the size and location of the crack. Symptoms are often intermittent because the crack may only separate slightly under pressure.
Common symptoms include:
- Sharp pain when biting or releasing your bite
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Pain that comes and goes without an obvious cause
- Difficulty identifying which tooth hurts
- Swelling of the gum around the affected tooth in some cases
Because these symptoms are not always constant, a cracked tooth can sometimes be difficult to diagnose without a dental exam.
Why Does a Cracked Tooth Hurt?
When you bite down, pressure can cause the crack to flex slightly. This movement may irritate the soft tissue inside the tooth, known as the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels.
Once the pressure is removed, the crack closes again, which is why the pain may disappear just as quickly as it started. As the crack progresses, symptoms often become more frequent or severe.
What Can Cause a Tooth to Crack?
Teeth are strong, but they are not indestructible. Everyday habits and normal wear can sometimes lead to cracks. Sometimes a crack develops gradually without a single obvious event.
Common causes include:
- Biting hard foods, ice, or unpopped popcorn kernels
- Clenching or grinding your teeth
- Large fillings that weaken the remaining tooth structure
- Trauma from a fall or sports injury
- Age-related wear over many years
Cracked Tooth Treatment
Treatment depends on the location and severity of the crack. The sooner a cracked tooth is diagnosed, the more treatment options are often available.
Treatment options include:
- Dental bonding for small, superficial cracks
- A dental crown to protect and strengthen the tooth
- Root canal treatment if the pulp has been damaged
- Extraction if the tooth cannot be restored
Early Diagnosis Can Help Protect Your Smile
A cracked tooth rarely improves without treatment, and delaying care may allow the damage to progress. Drs. Rhett Deaton and Tiffany Deaton carefully evaluate cracked teeth using a comprehensive examination and digital imaging to determine the source of your symptoms. We will recommend the most appropriate treatment while preserving your natural tooth whenever possible.
Dentist in Summerville, SC
If you are experiencing symptoms of a cracked tooth, early diagnosis can help prevent further damage and improve the likelihood of saving the tooth.
To book an appointment at Deaton Dental Associates, call (843) 873-3706 or visit us at 209 W 5th N St, Summerville, SC 29483.
To book an appointment at Flowertown Dentistry, call (843) 871-0814 or visit us at 445 North Cedar St, Summerville, SC 29483.
FAQ
Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?
A cracked tooth cannot repair itself. Depending on the extent of the damage, treatment may be recommended to protect the tooth and prevent the crack from worsening.
How do I know if my tooth has cracked?
Cracked tooth syndrome symptoms commonly include sharp pain when biting, sensitivity to temperature changes, and discomfort that comes and goes.
How long can I ignore a cracked tooth?
It is not recommended to ignore a cracked tooth. Even if symptoms are mild or intermittent, the crack can worsen over time and lead to more serious damage or infection. Early evaluation can help preserve the tooth and reduce the need for more extensive treatment.
How do you treat cracked tooth syndrome?
Treatment for cracked tooth syndrome depends on the severity and location of the crack. Your dentist will recommend the most appropriate option based on your specific condition.
