Cracked teeth are more common than many people realize. Sometimes the crack is visible, but often it’s small and difficult to see. Even if the pain comes and goes, a cracked tooth should never be ignored.
At The Henderson Dentist, we often see patients who initially thought their tooth discomfort would go away on its own.
Unfortunately, cracks tend to worsen over time.
Why Teeth Crack
Teeth can crack for many reasons, including:
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Biting on hard foods
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Teeth grinding or clenching
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Large existing fillings
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Trauma or injury
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Natural wear over time
When a tooth cracks, the pressure from chewing can cause the crack to gradually spread.
What Happens If It’s Not Treated
Ignoring a cracked tooth can lead to several complications.
The Crack Can Worsen
Small cracks may eventually grow larger and extend deeper into the tooth.
The Nerve Can Become Infected
If the crack reaches the pulp of the tooth, bacteria can enter and cause infection, potentially requiring a root canal.
The Tooth Could Break
In some cases, the tooth may split entirely, which can make saving the tooth much more difficult.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on how deep the crack is.
Common treatments include:
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Dental crowns to hold the tooth together
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Root canal therapy if the nerve is affected
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In severe cases, tooth extraction
Catching a crack early often allows for the simplest treatment.
Protecting Your Teeth
If you experience pain when chewing, sensitivity, or feel a sharp pain that comes and goes, it’s best to have the tooth evaluated as soon as possible.
Early treatment can often save the tooth and prevent more extensive procedures later.