Is My Tooth Cracked?

Over time, our teeth can break down due to clenching and grinding, decay, old restorations, or trauma. Teeth can develop small cracks that sometimes develop into a fracture, or split, and can cause a significant infection when bacteria enter and build up inside the tooth and the surrounding gum tissue. If you have ongoing sensitivity to hot or cold, and pain while chewing or biting, there is a chance your tooth may be cracked.

At Park Cities Periodontics and Implant Dentistry, we take a comprehensive approach to preserving your oral health. Whether your tooth can be saved or needs to be removed, our team is here to guide you through your options and provide expert care every step of the way.

How Do Teeth Become Cracked or Failing?

Cracks and structural damage can develop for many reasons, including:

  • Large fillings or crowns that have weakened the natural tooth structure
  • Trauma from accidents, grinding (bruxism), or chewing on hard foods
  • Decay that has undermined the internal support of the tooth
  • Root canal-treated teeth, which may become brittle over time
  • Gum disease, which can cause bone loss and reduce the stability of the tooth

 

Sometimes, a tooth may appear healthy on the surface but can be hiding a deep fracture or infection beneath the gumline. These situations can lead to discomfort, inflammation, or even damage to the surrounding tissues and neighboring teeth.

Signs You May Have a Failing or Cracked Tooth

Not all damaged teeth cause pain right away. However, you should contact our office if you experience any of the following:

  • Sudden or sharp pain when biting down
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
  • A feeling of pressure or discomfort near a specific tooth
  • Swelling or tenderness in the gums around one area
  • A loose or shifting tooth
  • Visible cracks or damage
  • A recurring lesion or raised area on the gum tissue, which may indicate infection

Early diagnosis can often prevent the problem from developing into a significant infection—and may even increase the chance of saving the tooth.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Our treatment recommendations will depend on the location and severity of the crack or damage. In some cases, a crown or restorative procedure may be enough to protect the tooth. Sometimes if we cannot pinpoint a fracture or exact cause for the symptoms, we will recommend an evaluation with a root canal specialist before moving towards any surgical treatment. In more advanced cases, especially if the tooth is extensively broken or an infection has caused significant bone loss, extraction may be necessary.

As board-certified periodontists, Dr. Tomlin and Dr. Bowers specialize in saving natural teeth when possible—and creating the healthiest foundation for replacement options when it is not. To discuss your options and schedule a consultation, contact us at 214-522-9700 or message us online.