What to do if you think you have a cracked molar
When a shooting pain in the back of your mouth starts becoming a cause for concern, you might suspect a cracked molar is the culprit. This week, our blog post will focus on the symptoms of a cracked molar, what you should do if you think you have a cracked molar, and how we can help you at WFW Endodontics.
How do you know if you have a cracked molar?
The first thing you'll probably want to know if you have pain in the back of your mouth is: What's causing this? Many times, it's not immediately apparent what the cause is, especially if it's pain coming from an issue with the root of your tooth. A lot of the time, a crack can be invisible to the naked eye or even undetectable on X-rays.
Here are some things you may notice if you have a cracked tooth:
When does it hurt?
Do you experience pain when chewing?
Does your tooth suddenly become sensitive to hot or cold temperatures?
For how long has it hurt, and how much?
Has it been more than a few days of constant pain?
Is the pain interfering with normal tasks?
Is the pain totally unbearable?
What are the symptoms of a cracked molar?
Symptoms associated with a cracked molar often vary, depending on the size and location of the crack, but common red flags include:
Sharp, localized pain when biting down or releasing the bite.
Sensitivity to sweetness or temperatures changes.
Discomfort that comes and goes.
Swelling around the affected tooth.
These symptoms are your mouth's SOS signal. Overlooking them can lead to more serious complications like infection or tooth loss.
What should you do if you have a cracked tooth?
If you're experiencing persistent toothache or sensitivity, take immediate action:
Call an endodontist: Schedule an emergency appointment with an endodontist like Dr. Nieves or Dr. Fitzhugh at West Fort Worth Endodontics.
Chew on the opposite side: Avoid using the cracked molar to prevent further damage.
Clean your mouth: Rinse with warm salt water to reduce bacteria and alleviate discomfort.
Take pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help, but make sure to follow the instructions provided on the medicine.
Acting fast can mean the difference between a simple fix or a more complicated procedure, so calling an endodontist and scheduling an appointment as quickly as possible is the best way to get relief from tooth pain.
How does an endodontist help with a cracked molar?
When you visit an endodontist with symptoms of a cracked molar, you're entrusting your oral health to a specialist with advanced training in diagnosing and treating tooth pain and pulp damage. At WFW Endodontics, our goal is to preserve your natural teeth and ensure your comfort throughout the process. That's why we've become board-certified endodontists who have received extra training and certifications to make sure you have the absolute best experience at our practice.
The roadmap to your relief begins with meticulous diagnosis. Our use of high-magnification loupes and 3D imaging techniques like cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) allows us to detect even the most elusive cracks. Once identified, Dr. Nieves or Dr. Fitzhugh will explain the extent of the damage and discuss with you the most suitable treatment options, whether that's a targeted restoration or root canal therapy, ensuring the plan aligns with your needs and desires.
If endodontic therapy is the chosen path, rest assured that you are in the hands of proficient specialists who will execute the procedure with precision and minimal discomfort, thanks to modern anesthesia options. Our use of the GentleWave® system, an innovative technology that cleans the root canal system more thoroughly while preserving more of the tooth structure, is indicative of our commitment to cutting-edge care. Saving your natural tooth and returning it to full function is not just our profession—it's our passion. And remember, acting quickly is key to a simpler, more effective treatment, so if you suspect a crack, reach out to us immediately for a consultation.
What are the treatment options for a cracked tooth?
Every crack is unique, but generally, treatment options include:
Root Canal Therapy
If the crack extends into the pulp of the tooth, root canal therapy is often the best course of action. An endodontist removes the damaged pulp, cleans the inner chambers, and seals the tooth to prevent further damage.
Molar Crown
After a root canal, a crown is typically placed over the molar to restore its shape, function, and appearance. The crown acts as a protective cap, giving your cracked molar a new lease on life.
Remember, preserving your natural tooth is always the primary goal. Delaying treatment can sometimes lead to the need for a tooth extraction, which we strive to avoid.
What is the before and after like?
Before Treatment
Before treatment, you might find yourself anxious about eating, speaking, or even smiling due to the discomfort and uncertainty associated with a cracked molar. Life seems to revolve around your toothache.
After Treatment
Imagine biting into an apple without a second thought, or sipping on an iced drink without bracing for pain—the relief can be truly liberating. Post-treatment, with your pain alleviated and your tooth function restored, you can return to normality. Depending on the severity of the issue, you may be able to return to normal activity within a day or two.
Make an appointment at WFW Endodontics if you're suffering from tooth pain
At WFW Endodontics, we believe everyone deserves a pain-free life with a smile they're proud of. If you suspect you've got a cracked molar or are experiencing any form of tooth pain, don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Call 817-769-6100 to schedule an appointment with our compassionate endodontic specialists. We're committed to providing the highest standard of patient-centered care in a comfortable and reassuring environment.
It's your time to leave tooth pain behind and smile with confidence—let us help you along that journey.