Can Cracked Tooth Be Saved?
Do you have a crack in your tooth? If so, you may be wondering if it can be repaired. If the damage is severe enough, you may even be wondering if the tooth can be saved at all.
Below is helpful information about cracked teeth, including the reasons, symptoms to look for, and treatment options.
What Leads to a Cracked Tooth?
There are a few things that can lead to a cracked tooth. These include:
- Clenching and grinding (bruxism)
- Trauma
- Chewing on hard objects
- Eating hard foods
- Age
Symptoms of a Cracked Tooth
The main symptom to look for when it comes to a cracked tooth is an obvious crack in the tooth. With that said, not all cracks are easily seen. Here are some other symptoms you can look for:
- Swelling
- Ongoing tooth pain
- Pain when eating
- Sensitivity
Can Cracked Tooth Be Saved?
Whether or not your cracked tooth can be saved will depend on the severity of the crack and any infection. With that said, here are some common repair options for a cracked tooth:
- Dental bonding: Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that involves the placement of a tooth-colored resin on the damaged portion of a patient’s tooth. This is a good option for minor cracks and chips.
- Dental veneer: A dental veneer is a prosthetic that replaces a larger portion of the crown of a tooth. The process of placing a dental veneer involves reshaping the tooth to secure a durable tooth-colored shell.
- Dental crown: A dental crown is a prosthetic that is intended to replace the majority or entirety of the crown of a patient’s tooth. This is reserved for more severe cracks. Dental crowns are a durable and long-lasting replacement solution.
Can I Avoid a Cracked Tooth?
Generally, outside of accidents, a cracked tooth can be avoided.
One of the simplest ways to avoid a cracked tooth is to take proper care of your oral health. Make sure you brush twice a day, along with flossing and rinsing daily. It’s also extremely important that you visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup. During this checkup, your dentist will check for any damage to your teeth (including cracks).
If you smoke or use any tobacco products, make sure you stop. Not only will it help to prevent cracks, but it is good for your health overall.
If you suffer from bruxism (clenching and grinding of the teeth), it’s very important that you invest in a nightguard. While a custom nightguard is ideal, even an over-the-counter nightguard will help to prevent cracks.
Finally, if you play any contact sports, make sure you invest in a mouthguard.
Contact Us
If you have a noticeably cracked tooth or you are suffering from the symptoms mentioned above, reach out today to set an appointment. A top dentist will examine your tooth and put together a treatment plan to meet your oral health needs.