A cracked tooth can cause discomfort, and how to fix a cracked tooth naturally may be something that you are worried about. While many home remedies can help with the pain of a cracked tooth, it is usually a professional that needs to be called in to fix it to avoid the damage getting any worse. Let’s find out more about what a cracked tooth is, what causes it, and how to treat it in our guide below.
Causes of a Cracked Tooth
The causes of a cracked tooth may include the following:
- Chewing on hard foods: breaking or chewing on objects such as ice, nuts, or hard candies wears away the enamel.
- Bruxism (teeth grinding): The constant grinding or clenching of teeth puts a great deal of pressure on the teeth.
- Sudden temperature changes: Eating hot food, then introducing something cold, can cause stress fractures in the teeth.
- Trauma or injury: Accidents, falls, or sports activities can lead to cracks in the teeth.
Knowing the cause is important in preventing it and in selecting the appropriate treatment for a cracked tooth.
Signs That You May Have a Cracked Tooth
If you think you have a cracked tooth, look for these signs:
- Chewing pain: an acute discomfort that is present and gone.
- Hot or cold sensitive: enhanced sensitivity to temperature changes.
- Swollen gums: swelling in the area that is affected.
- Off and on discomfort: pain that is not persistent but occurs on pressure.
If not treated, a cracked tooth may become infected or even lead to tooth loss.
Does a Cracked Tooth Need to Be Pulled?
Not all cracked teeth are fatal and require extraction. The severity of the crack determines the treatment:
- Minor cracks: These can be treated through bonding or filling.
- Moderate cracks: A crown may be placed over the tooth to preserve it.
- Severe cracks: If the crack extends up to the gum line, then extraction may be required.
The dentist will examine your tooth and suggest the most suitable solution. It is usually possible to keep the natural tooth with appropriate cracked tooth treatment if done early.
Treatment Options for a Cracked Tooth
Your dentist may recommend one of the following depending on the severity:
- Bonding: To fix small cracks and chips, a resin material is applied.
- Dental Crown: To place a protective cap on the tooth to enable it to function properly and to prevent further cracking.
- Root Canal: If the crack is to the inner pulp, then a root canal can be done to save the tooth.
- Extraction: When the tooth is completely damaged, it may require extraction, with the recommendation of a dental implant or a bridge.
It is a big difference between seeking treatment early and losing your natural tooth.
Preventing Cracked Teeth
Here are some ways you can lower your chances of getting a cracked tooth:
- Do not chew on any hard food items, such as ice or unpopped popcorn kernels.
- If you have teeth grinding or play sports, use a mouthguard.
- Keep a healthy mouth to have strong teeth.
If you already have a cracked tooth, do not require cracked tooth treatment; you can just wait for it to happen.
Visit A Local Dentist in Grande Prairie
A cracked tooth can be painful, but there are solutions available. If you are looking for treatment for a cracked tooth, visit the Swanavon Dental Clinic to seek the opinion of a professional.
At Swanavon Dental Clinic we offer expert care from a trusted dentist in Grande Prairie. Our team is experienced in managing cracked teeth and offers the latest approaches to bring back your shine.
Don’t wait; schedule your appointment now!
