Common Causes of Cracked Teeth
Several factors can lead to cracked teeth, including:
- Biting on hard foods such as ice, nuts, or hard candy.
- Bruxism (teeth grinding) often occurs during sleep.
- Trauma from accidents or sports injuries.
- Weakened teeth from previous dental work, like large fillings or root canals.
- Age-related factors, such as teeth naturally weakening over time.
- Wear from habits such as nail biting, opening and holding items with your teeth, eventually weakening the tooth.
Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth
While some cracks may not be immediately noticeable, the following symptoms often indicate a problem:
- Pain when chewing or biting, particularly with pressure.
- Sensitivity to temperature changes (hot, cold) or sweet foods.
- Swelling of the gums around the affected tooth.
- Intermittent pain that comes and goes.
If you notice any of these symptoms, booking an appointment with a dentist for evaluation is essential. Ignoring a cracked tooth can lead to further complications, including infection or tooth loss.
Diagnosing a Cracked Tooth
Dream Smile Dental Clinic uses the latest dental technology to diagnose cracked teeth. During your visit, we will:
- Perform a detailed visual examination.
- Use dental imaging such as X-rays or digital scanning.
- Conduct a bite test to pinpoint the exact location of the crack.
- Using high-resolution cameras or a Dental microscope to find possible cracks that lead to fractures
Once diagnosed, we’ll explain the severity of the crack and discuss the best treatment options for you.