If you get a cut or break a bone, your body works to heal itself. So, is it the same when it comes to your oral health? Can a cracked tooth heal on its own?
The answer, unfortunately, is no. Once the tooth’s enamel has been damaged it will not repair itself. Even worse, it breaks the barrier to allow bacteria and debris to make their way inside the tooth which can lead to decay.
If you have a cracked tooth, it’s time to call your dentist.
What Can Cause a Cracked Tooth?
A cracked tooth can happen for many different reasons —
- Biting down on something hard
- Poor oral hygiene
- Bruxism (grinding the teeth or clenching the jaw)
- Dental trauma
- Old fillings or other dental work
Taking care to not injure your teeth and maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce the risk of cracks.
Signs of a Cracked Tooth
Sometimes it is easy to see when a tooth has a crack in it. Other times, not so much. Knowing what to look for, however, can help.
- Pain when biting or chewing foods
- Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
- Swollen gums
- Throbbing pain
Of course, these signs may also indicate other types of oral health issues so any time you experience the above, contact your dentist.
Common Treatment for a Cracked Tooth
A dentist’s goal is always to protect your natural teeth. So, when you show up with a cracked tooth, you can feel confident that your dentist will take every step imaginable to save it. How they do that can vary based on the crack, including how deep it goes.
Below are a few common treatments for a cracked tooth.
- A filling or dental bonding. If the crack doesn’t make it through the enamel, using a resin will work to seal the tooth and keep out bacteria and debris. This will prevent anything from getting inside the tooth and wreaking havoc.
- A root canal. If the crack goes a bit deeper and makes its way inside the tooth, a root canal can often be done to try and preserve the natural tooth. The pulp will be removed and the area, including the roots, will be cleaned out before sealing it up.
- A dental crown. A crack that may jeopardize your tooth’s integrity can be restored with a dental crown. This will help you regain the full functionality of the tooth.
Note that if the tooth is cracked beyond repair, an extraction may be warranted.
Frequently Asked Questions about a Cracked Tooth
Is a cracked tooth a dental emergency?
It depends. If the tooth is cracked to the gum line (or below) it is often a dental emergency. Contact our office right away.
Is it safe to brush a cracked tooth?
Yes, it is safe to gently brush a cracked tooth. This helps keep decay-causing particles away from your tooth until you can be seen by a dentist.
Find Solutions For Your Cracked Tooth
Do you have a cracked tooth that needs some attention? Minoli & Vijay, DDS PC can help. We offer a long list of dental treatments that can address your cracked tooth and restore it in both functionality and appearance.
Contact us today at 212-888-4140 to request an appointment.