How Did That Tooth Crack?

Although more people than ever are aging with original teeth in place, many will experience a cracked tooth or two.

If you discover a crack in one of your teeth, get it checked out by your dentist right away. It’s very possible that it can be saved thanks to advances in endodontristy.

Why Did That Tooth Crack?

Although the enamel on our teeth is the hardest substance in the body, it will wear down after decades of use.

Think about it: our teeth are used several times a day, seven days a week, and almost every day of the year (setting aside fasting days for religious or personal reasons). They’ve done an amazing job.

Other incidental stresses like grinding, clenching, and the occasional hard candy can be the final straw in the camel’s back. Accidents can also cause teeth to crack even when they’re healthy.

The good news is, some cracked teeth can often be repaired.

Crowns and Root Canals Save Cracked Teeth

Crowns replace the top part of teeth that extend over the gum line. If the damage doesn’t involve the pulp, which form in the center of the entire tooth, a crown can often save the tooth.

However, if a crack reaches the pulp, root canal is often necessary as well. It depends on the extent of the crack. For this reason, it’s very important to have regular dental checkups and to immediately visit a dentist for an evaluation of new and sudden cracks. The longer you wait, the deeper the crack will get.

Even Painless Cracked Teeth Need to Be Checked

Cracks that don’t cause pain simply haven’t reached a nerve—yet. It’s almost a given that there will eventually be pain because cracked or chipped teeth are already weakened.

Read more about tooth damage and repairs.

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