What Causes Teeth to Crack?
A cracked tooth is a critical concern that must be addressed immediately, regardless of whether you have recently discovered it or it occurred unexpectedly. The reason for this urgency is that a cracked tooth has the potential to deteriorate rapidly and irreversibly. It is imperative to comprehend that an untreated crack in a tooth could lead to its complete fragmentation. This severely compromises the integrity of the tooth and can cause excruciating discomfort with naked nerve endings being exposed. Fortunately, dentists are able to prevent such an eventuality and preserve the tooth’s structural soundness.
Having a chipped tooth may not lead to additional harm, but it is still recommended that you seek professional treatment. However, a cracked tooth is a serious concern and requires prompt attention. Seeking the services of a General Dentist is required in such a situation. Visit your dentist without delay. In the event that you haven’t yet acquired knowledge regarding how to enhance the protection of your teeth, allow us to enlighten you on the causes of teeth cracking and provide you with effective measures to prevent these dental concerns.
Causes of Cracked Teeth
The occurrence of a cracked tooth can be identified immediately in some cases, while it may take days or even weeks for a patient to recognize the issue when they start experiencing dental pain. The leading causes behind the development of a cracked tooth are:
Bruxism
The condition known as bruxism refers to the act of grinding one’s teeth or clenching the jaw. It typically manifests during sleep, and those affected may not be conscious of it. This habit places a significant amount of force on the teeth, rendering them vulnerable to fracturing.
Dental Restorations
Dental restorations have been known to increase the likelihood of tooth cracking. This is because large dental fillings can weaken a tooth, making it more susceptible to breakage. In fact, teeth with such restorations are at a higher risk of cracking due to factors such as bruxism, consumption of challenging foods, or dental trauma.
Hard Food
The fracturing of teeth can often be attributed to the consumption of hard or resilient foods. Moreover, certain edibles may conceal small, rock-like objects that can result in accidental fractures upon biting into them. It is significant to recognize that a tooth can fracture due to the habitual habits of biting or chewing non-edible substances such as nails, ice, and writing instruments.
Dental Trauma
The occurrence of dental trauma can arise from a variety of incidents including falling, accidents, mouth blows, or sports-related injuries. It is highly advised to utilize a mouthguard whilst engaging in athletic activities in order to prevent potential harm.
Temperature Changes
The fluctuation of temperature in the oral cavity can lead to the fracturing of teeth. As an instance, when one consumes a hot food item which burns the mouth and follows it up with chilled water to alleviate the discomfort.
Wear
As we progress in age, our teeth undergo daily usage which causes them to become worn over time, making them more susceptible to cracks. Surprisingly, a majority of the cases involving cracked teeth are among individuals who are 50 years and above.
Treatment for a cracked tooth
The course of treatments for a crack in your tooth is influenced by several factors, including its size, location, associated symptoms, and the extent to which it extends below the gum line. Taking into account these variables, your dentist may suggest any of the following options:
Composite Bonding
The dentist will utilize a composite resin in this method to remedy the fracture, resulting in the restoration of its appearance and performance. This is done when there is a slight fracture on the edge of tooth and the core integrity is not compromised.
Dental Crown
A prosthetic dental cover commonly crafted from porcelain or ceramic is known as a dental crown. It is designed to either fit over the damaged tooth or cap it.
In order to accommodate a crown, the initial step involves your dentist removing some enamel from your tooth to create ample space on the affected tooth. Subsequently, they take an impression of the tooth and select a color that pairs with your natural teeth. This impression is then dispatched to an authorized dental laboratory for the creation of the crown.
Following the required timeframe, it will take a few weeks to complete this procedure. After the crown is delivered, your dentist precisely adjusts and securely bonds it onto the fractured tooth.
Thanks to technological innovations, a few dental practitioners possess the capability of producing a porcelain crown right in their office and subsequently installing it on the very same day.
A crown can endure a lifetime when given appropriate care.
Root canal
In situations where a crack extends into the pulp, rendering it extensively damaged, your dentist or an endodontist may suggest a root canal procedure. This method aims at eliminating the impaired pulp and rehabilitating tooth integrity. By following this procedure, the tooth can be protected against infection and any further deterioration with the addition of a dental crown.
Extraction
When the tooth’s framework, along with its underlying nerves and roots, are severely impaired, extraction could be the sole course of action.
No treatment
It is a common occurrence for individuals to have minuscule fractures on their tooth enamel. When these fractures do not result in any discomfort or change in aesthetic appearance, it may be recommended by your healthcare provider to refrain from intervention.
If you happen to be anxious regarding a chipped tooth, and have not yet found a dentist, you may contact our Victorville dental office to help you make the right decision.