June 1, 2023

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth and How Is the Condition Diagnosed?

What Is a Cracked Tooth?

It is a dental condition that occurs when there is a fracture or a crack in the tooth, typically affecting the outer layer of the tooth, known as the enamel. Cracked teeth can range in severity from minor, superficial cracks to more serious, deep fractures that can extend into the tooth’s root. Often, patients require emergency dental care in Frisco, Texas, for a cracked tooth because the damage has advanced to the inner layers, reaching the tooth pulp and potentially the roots.

What Are the Most Common Risk Factors Associated with This Condition?

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing a cracked tooth, including:

1. Trauma: A blow to the face or mouth, such as a sports injury or accident, can cause a tooth to crack.
2. Bruxism: Grinding or clenching teeth, especially during sleep, causes excessive pressure on the teeth that can lead to cracking over time.
3. Chewing on hard objects, such as ice, hard candy, or pens, increase the risk of a cracked tooth.
4. Age: As you age, your teeth become more brittle and prone to cracking.
5. Tooth decay: Dental decay weakens teeth, making them more susceptible to cracking.
6. Large fillings: Having a sizeable dental filling or undergoing multiple dental procedures weakens your teeth, making them more likely to develop cracks.
7. Uneven biting pressure: An uneven bite, such as when teeth are misaligned, overcrowded, or the jaw is misaligned, can cause excessive pressure on teeth and increase their risk of cracking.
8. Diet: A diet high in sugary or acidic foods and drinks erodes and weakens tooth enamel, increasing the risk of fractures.

Signs and Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth

1. Pain when biting or chewing
2. Sensitivity to hot or cold foods or drinks
3. Swelling or tenderness of the gums
4. Visible cracks, chips, or breakage
5. A Tooth appearing discolored or darker than the surrounding teeth

How Do Dentists Diagnose a Cracked Tooth?

Diagnosing a cracked tooth can be challenging because the symptoms can vary and may not always be noticeable during a dental exam. Besides, dentists at Regina Y Powe DDS do not only rely on signs and symptoms to determine your prognosis. Instead, they use various techniques to diagnose a cracked tooth, including:

1. Visual examination: Dentists visually inspect the tooth for visible cracks or fractures and areas of weakness, including discoloration around the tooth.
2. Bite test: It involves biting down on a special instrument to expose any sensitive or painful areas of the tooth when pressure is applied.
3. X-rays: Dental X-rays help identify cracks that are hard to catch with the naked eye or those extending into the tooth root.
4. Transillumination: It involves shining a bright light on the target tooth to identify cracks or fractures that may not be visible during a visual examination.
5. Dye testing: Dentists sometimes use a special dye to identify cracks or fractures that are difficult to see.

​Can A Cracked Tooth Be Repaired with A Filling or Bonding Procedure?

Whether or not a dentist treats a cracked tooth with a dental filling or bonding procedure depends on the severity of the crack. Usually, dentists will repair a minor crack or chip with dental bonding. It involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the affected area and hardening it with a special light. Composite bonding is only effective for small surface cracks. If anything, dentists use composite bonding as cracked teeth treatment in Frisco, TX, for aesthetic modifications. Meanwhile, dental fillings have functional and aesthetic benefits for minor tooth cracks. If the crack is deeper and more severe, extending deep into the tooth root, composite bonding will not suffice. This time, the dentist may recommend a dental crown. The procedure involves placing a cap over the affected tooth to protect it and prevent further damage. The dental crown will strengthen the tooth’s structure to restore optimal function. When the crack has extended into the tooth’s root or has caused nerve damage, root canal therapy is first necessary to remove the damaged tissue and prevent infection. This endodontic treatment also addresses oral pain management and treatment before installing a dental crown over the tooth. For severely fractured teeth, dentists recommend tooth extractions. The good news is that you can consider tooth replacement solutions afterward, including dentures, bridges, and dental implants.