If you have a cracked tooth, it is essential to seek treatment as soon as possible. Cracked teeth can lead to a number of serious problems, including infection, damage to the nerve, and tooth loss. However, it’s not always easy to see if you have any cracked teeth. The best way is to look at the following signs:
Pain When Biting or Chewing
One of the most common signs of a cracked tooth is a pain when biting or chewing. If you have a cracked tooth, you may feel pain when you eat or drink or when you brush your teeth. This pain may be sharp, throbbing, or constant.
Visible Cracks in the Tooth
Another sign of a cracked tooth is visible cracks in the tooth. These cracks may be small and barely visible, or they may be large and easily seen. If you can see cracks in your teeth, it’s crucial to consult an emergency dentist in Alexandria so they can prescribe treatment for your damaged teeth.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
If you have a cracked tooth, you may also experience sensitivity to hot and cold. This means that you may feel pain when you drink or eat something hot or cold or when you brush your teeth. This sensitivity may last for a short period of time, or it may be constant.
Tenderness or Swelling in the Gums
That feeling of tenderness and discomfort in your gums could be a sign that you have a cracked tooth. This means that you may feel pain when you touch or press on the gums near the cracked tooth. You may also notice that the gums are red and inflamed.
Cracked Tooth Risk Factors
There are many different factors that can contribute to developing a cracked tooth. Some of these are controllable, while others are not. It’s important to be aware of the risk factors so that you can take steps to protect your teeth. Some common causes of a cracked tooth include:
Chewing on Hard Objects: Chewing on hard objects such as ice, hard candy, or your fingernails can put stress on your teeth. This can lead to cracks, especially if you have a tooth that is already weakened.
Grinding Your Teeth: If you grind your teeth, you’re putting a lot of pressure on them. Over time, this can cause cracks.
Teeth Clenching: Clenching your teeth can also put a lot of pressure on them and lead to cracks.
Dental Trauma: Dental trauma, such as a blow to the mouth or an intense fall, can cause a tooth to crack.
Age: Of course, age is also a risk factor since our teeth and bones become weak as we grow old. They can become brittle over time, which can lead to cracks and fractures.
Conclusion
There are several ways to know if you have a cracked tooth. If you have pain when chewing or biting, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, or visible cracks or chips in your teeth, you may have a cracked tooth. While a small crack may not cause pain or other symptoms, a larger crack can lead to serious problems, including infection, tooth loss, and damage to the nerves. If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, see your dentist as soon as possible.
If you think you’re experiencing symptoms of a cracked tooth, the dental professionals at Galleria Dental of Alexandria are always available to help. Our team of Alexandria dentistry experts can help you figure out what’s going on and develop a treatment plan to get your smile back on track. Give us a call whenever you need help from a qualified emergency dentist in Alexandria.