As much as we use our teeth for chewing and starting the digestive process of our food, it should come as no surprise that our teeth constantly have pressures on them. This can result in microcracks in teeth that are invisible to the naked eye, but over time can become a problem if they spread. These cracks can start in perfectly healthy teeth, or more often, in teeth that have old fillings in them.
There are several ways to know if a tooth is cracked. Most often, the tooth in question hurts when a person chews on it. Abnormal sensitivity to cold is another symptom of a possible cracked tooth. It is also important to note that sometimes a cracked tooth that should be treated feels fine.
In the earlier stages a cracked tooth is easier to treat than in the later stages. This is why it is important to maintain regular dental check-ups and to see a dentist at the first sign of an abnormal sensation in a tooth to rule out possible cracked tooth. A crack can potentially spread to the point where the tooth might not be salvageable.
A cracked tooth may be treated by placing a crown on it to protect it from further stress and to keep the crack from spreading. A crown is most often the treatment of choice, but depending on the size and location of the crack, a bonded filling might do the job well and be more conservative. A dentist can best make the determination about which treatment is best.
Some things can be done to prevent cracked teeth, like avoiding the chewing of ice, and soften very hard breads and other foods before chewing on them. We can make our teeth last a lifetime, with a schedule of regular dental check-ups, and good care of our teeth at home. Ask a dentist if you have any questions about cracked teeth or any other dental topics!
