Symptoms of Cracked Tooth
One oral health issue adults commonly face is a cracked tooth. Treatment will vary based on the severity of the crack, but common treatments include root canals, crowns, bonding, veneers, and extraction. In order to prevent the issue from becoming worse or losing the tooth, the issue must be addressed right away. Prompt treatment helps to ensure the best outcome and preserve the tooth. There are other components which can also impact the best treatment option. This can include the severity of the damage, if the crack extends down into the root, and how long the crack has been present. Early detection and prompt treatment determine the success in preserving and restoring the tooth. If a patient thinks they may have cracked a tooth, it is vital to follow up with the dentist immediately.
Symptoms of a cracked tooth can vary drastically based on the type of crack and its severity. Pain and other symptoms associated with the cracked tooth can be sporadic and may be made worse when chewing. Cracks can also be difficult to detect through an X-ray and challenging to diagnose. The dentist may use dye, a hand instrument, and visual examinations to determine where the crack is located.
Another term used for a cracked tooth is cracked tooth syndrome (CTS). Common symptoms of CTS are summarized below. It is possible for a minor crack to not cause any symptoms. The symptoms summarized below can also indicate another oral health problem. The symptoms could be caused by other issues such as an abscess, gum disease, infection, bruxism, or another type of issue. Dentists will perform a complete examination prior to the diagnosis to ensure there are no underlying issues.
A cracked tooth can often cause the symptoms summarized below.
Pain
Cracked or fractured teeth often result in pain, which can be especially triggered by chewing or biting down. Pain can range to hardly present or excruciating. The pain is often sporadic and can be difficult to determine which tooth is experiencing the discomfort. Discomfort can vary based on the depth of the crack and the amount of pulp which is exposed.
Sensitivity
A cracked tooth can also be quite sensitive, especially to hot, cold, or sweets. The sensitivity can range from mild to severe nerve pain. Cracks which extend into tooth’s pulp typically cause severe pain and discomfort.
Gum Swelling
Swollen gums is another sign of a cracked tooth. Swelling will often be present at the base or around the damaged tooth. Gums can also be tender, red, or warm to the touch. The presence of swelling suggests that the pulp is affected, making it susceptible to infection.
Infection
When a cracked tooth is not treated right away, it can allow for the pulp to become infected. If the tooth is infected, it needs to be treated immediately to prevent the spread of infection. It is possible for the infection to spread into the gums and bone over time. Signs of infection may include fever, swelling, pain, swollen glands, and bad breath. If a patient suspects that their damaged tooth is infected, they should contact their dentist right away and seek treatment as soon as possible.
Prompt treatment is critical in preserving a cracked tooth. Successful treatment relies on timely detection of the issue. Untreated cracks can cause additional damage and even the loss of the tooth.