Cracked Tooth Repair in New York, NY

About Cracked Tooth Repair at Rock Dental

Cracked teeth can cause a variety of symptoms including pain while chewing, temperature sensitivities, and the release of biting pressure. It’s common for pain to come and go, which can make diagnosing the cause difficult.

While you chew, cracked pieces of your tooth move, and the pulp within the tooth may become irritated. When biting pressure is released, the crack can close quickly resulting in sharp pain. If left untreated, the pulp will eventually become damaged and the tooth will constantly hurt, even when you are not chewing.

It is possible that cracks can lead to infection of the pulp tissue and can spread to the bone and gums surrounding the problem tooth.

There are different types of cracks, and each should be evaluated to prevent tooth loss and infection.

Why a Cracked Tooth Should Not Wait

A crack in a tooth does not heal on its own the way a broken bone can. Each time you bite down, the crack flexes a little, and over time it can travel deeper toward the root. A small crack that could have been covered with a crown may eventually reach a point where the tooth is much harder to save. That is why dentists treat a suspected crack as something to look at soon, even when the pain is mild.

Cracks are also easy to miss. Many are too fine to see in the mirror and do not always show on an X-ray, so the discomfort can seem random. Common causes include grinding or clenching, chewing ice or hard foods, large older fillings, and a knock to the mouth. If you notice a sharp twinge in one tooth when you bite or let go, or new sensitivity to hot and cold, tell your dentist so the tooth can be checked.

What to Expect When a Cracked Tooth Is Checked

Your visit typically starts with a conversation about what you feel and when. Your dentist will then examine the tooth closely, which may include having you bite on a small instrument, checking the gums around the tooth, and taking digital X-rays or intraoral camera images. Once the type of crack is clear, your dentist will explain the options. Depending on how deep it runs, that may be bonding, a crown, a root canal followed by a crown, or in some cases removing the tooth.

The area is numbed for treatment, and nitrous oxide is available if you feel anxious. Afterward, it is normal for the tooth to feel a little tender or sensitive for a few days. Chew on the other side until your dentist says otherwise, and avoid very hard or sticky foods while a temporary restoration is in place. If you grind your teeth, your dentist may suggest a night guard to protect the repair. Call the office at (212) 332-1020 if you notice swelling or worsening pain.