What should I do if I have a cracked tooth?
If you've found this article, chances are you already know that a cracked or fractured tooth can happen unexpectedly and can be a very painful experience. Sometimes a cracked tooth may not be visible, but you may feel sensitivity or pain when you chew or bite down on something. If you suspect that you may have a cracked tooth, it's important to know what steps to take and whether you need to see an endodontist for treatment. In this blog post, we will answer some common questions about cracked teeth and what you should do if you think you have one.
What is considered a cracked tooth?
A cracked tooth is when there is a break or fracture in the tooth that can be visible or invisible. It can be caused by numerous things such as teeth grinding, biting down on something hard or an injury to the mouth. Cracks may be superficial or can extend deeper into the tooth’s pulp. If a crack has extended all the way down to the tooth's pulp, it may cause further complications that might lead to needing root canal therapy.
When should I see an endodontist for a cracked tooth?
Endodontists specialize in treating the inside of teeth and are trained to diagnose and treat cracked teeth. If you have a cracked tooth, or think you might have a cracked tooth because you're noticing increased pain and sensitivity, it's best to seek an appointment with an endodontist as soon as possible. Cracks that are left untreated can result in the tooth becoming infected or the crack worsening, requiring more aggressive treatment. If you have symptoms such as pain or sensitivity when eating, drinking, or biting down, you need to see an endodontist immediately.
What is the treatment like for a cracked tooth?
Endodontic treatment for a cracked or fractured tooth depends on the severity and location of the crack. Treatment may include a filling, crown, root canal therapy or extraction if the damage is extensive. Endodontists are trained to diagnose the extent of damage and to recommend the best course of action for the patient's specific needs. They can also answer any questions specifically directed toward your personal case.
Most of the time, an endodontist like Dr. Nieves or Dr. Fitzhugh can save a tooth that's been cracked. In fact, both of our endodontists are board-certified, which means they've gone through extensive training to learn how to save teeth instead of having to remove them. This lets our patients keep their original teeth instead of having to do additional dental surgery to restore the functioning of the tooth, such as having an implant.
What is the recovery period like after having a cracked tooth?
The recovery period will vary depending on the extent of the treatment. If the endodontist chooses to perform a root canal or extraction, the recovery process typically lasts for a few days. During recovery time, you may need to avoid hard or crunchy foods, practice good oral hygiene, and take any prescribed medication.
You may also be scheduled to come back for a followup so that our team can examine the tooth and make sure we've taken care of you properly. After a week or so, nearly all of our patients have little to no pain and can resume normal activities, though it is important to be careful around the area to prevent any other damage.
How can I prevent damage to my teeth in the future?
Preventing damage to your teeth is essential to maintaining your oral health. You can reduce your risk of cracking a tooth by avoiding hard foods and objects, wearing a mouthguard during physical activity and practicing good oral hygiene such as brushing and flossing regularly. Regular dental check-ups are also essential for the early detection of any issues that may arise, and your dentist will let you know if he or she sees something out of the ordinary way before it becomes a bigger issue.
If you're suffering from tooth pain, West Fort Worth Endodontics can help.
Cracked teeth can be painful and uncomfortable, but they can be treated with the help of a board-certified endodontist like Dr. Nieves or Dr. Fitzhugh. If you think you may have a cracked tooth or have any questions about endodontic treatment, contact West Fort Worth Endodontics today. Our team of experts is ready to help you get the relief you need and get back to enjoying life. Remember, prevention is key, so be sure to take care of your teeth and practice good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of future damage.