How Cracked Teeth Happen
A cracked tooth is more common than many people realize. Cracks can form from chewing ice, biting hard foods, grinding, trauma, or even years of repeated pressure. Some cracks are obvious, but many are small and only show up as intermittent pain.
Warning Signs To Watch For
Common signs include sharp pain when biting, sensitivity to cold or sweets, and discomfort that comes and goes. You might feel pain when you release your bite rather than when you bite down. In some cases, the tooth feels “off,” but you cannot pinpoint it. A visible chip or rough edge can be present, but not always.
What To Do Right Away
If you suspect a cracked tooth, avoid chewing on that side and keep the area clean. Do not test it repeatedly by biting to “see if it still hurts,” because that can worsen the crack. If you have swelling, throbbing pain, or pain that keeps you awake, it may mean the crack has reached the nerve or an infection is forming.
How Dentists Treat a Cracked Tooth
Treatment depends on the depth and location. Small cracks may be stabilized with smoothing and monitoring, while larger cracks often need a crown to hold the tooth together. If the nerve is involved, a root canal may be needed before the crown. In severe cases where the crack extends below the gumline, extraction may be the safest option.
