Sometimes, a crack in a tooth is obvious. If you bite down too hard on ice or take a hard blow to your mouth, you can see or feel the damage to your tooth.
However, sometimes you can have a cracked tooth and not realize it. Cracked teeth can also happen as a result of constant teeth grinding, general wear-and-tear, or even a sudden change in temperature inside your mouth.
Whatever the case, a cracked tooth causes all sorts of unpleasant symptoms, such as tooth pain that comes and goes when you chew food or extreme sensitivity when your tooth is exposed to hot or cold foods and drinks.
No matter the cause or symptoms of your cracked tooth, seeking care at one of the practices of endodontist Robert Scott Nance, DDS, MS, PA, is vital. Endodontists like Dr. Nance specialize in treating cracked teeth and can often keep them from needing extraction.
This blog focuses on what happens when you crack a tooth and how it’s treated.
Your enamel is the outer layer that covers and protects your tooth. Tooth enamel is incredibly mineralized and strong. It’s the strongest substance in your body, even more so than your bones. However, enamel is not invincible, and it can be broken.
Underneath the enamel lies another hard layer called dentin. The dentin contains an inner portion called pulp. The tooth pulp consists of all your tooth’s blood vessels and nerves. When the enamel becomes cracked, pieces of your tooth move around and start to irritate your pulp, causing pain and severe sensitivity.
If the crack is wide enough, bacteria can infect the inner portion of your tooth.
Your treatment plan for a cracked tooth can vary widely depending on the severity of the damage.
In cases of minor or moderate cracks, the tooth can be rescued by simply filling in the cracks or covering the top of the tooth with a crown. If a piece of your tooth comes off, Dr. Nance can put it back together using a special tooth-colored bonding substance.
However, if the crack is severe and the damage has reached the pulp of your tooth, you may need a root canal. Dr. Nance removes the damaged pulp during a root canal and restores the tooth's integrity.
If you suspect that you have a cracked tooth, don’t delay seeking treatment. The longer you wait, the worse the damage will become, and the tooth will more likely need to be extracted.
Schedule an appointment at either our Statesville or Hickory, North Carolina, location by contacting our friendly staff today.
