Cracked Tooth Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Cracked teeth are a dental issue more common than many people might expect, often going unnoticed until symptoms become severe. Everyday activities such as chewing on hard foods, teeth grinding, or experiencing an accidental facial injury can result in cracks that compromise the integrity of your tooth. While some cracks may seem minor at first, they can quickly lead to serious oral health problems if left untreated. 

Early identification and treatment of a cracked tooth are crucial for preserving your natural tooth, preventing further damage, and avoiding costly dental procedures down the line. Being proactive about your oral health can mean the difference between saving a tooth and dealing with complex complications. 

This blog will guide you through the key symptoms of cracked teeth, their common causes, available treatment options, and the consequences of delaying care. Recognizing the signs early may help protect your smile and overall dental health.

What Is a Cracked Tooth?

A cracked tooth occurs when there is a fracture in the structure of the tooth, which can range from minor surface cracks to more severe splits that affect the root. Cracks can happen for a variety of reasons, and while some may be painless and purely cosmetic, others can lead to discomfort, sensitivity, or even serious dental problems if left untreated. Understanding the types of cracks and their causes can help with early identification and treatment.

Different Types of Cracks

Not all tooth cracks are the same. They can vary in severity and the part of the tooth they affect. Here are the most common types:

• Craze lines: These are tiny, surface-level cracks that only affect the outer enamel. They are usually painless and considered more of a cosmetic issue rather than a health concern.
• Fractured cusp: This type of crack typically occurs around a dental filling, when the pointed part, or cusp, of the tooth breaks off. It often doesn’t affect the pulp and causes minimal pain.
• Cracked tooth: A crack that extends vertically toward the root. If untreated, it can worsen, potentially exposing the pulp and causing pain or sensitivity.
• Split tooth: A crack that runs deep enough to divide the tooth into two distinct parts. This type often requires extraction if the damage is extensive.
• Vertical root fracture: A crack that begins in the root and moves upward. These fractures are often difficult to detect and may only be noticed once an infection develops.

How Cracks Develop

Tooth cracks can occur for a variety of reasons, often due to a combination of factors. Here are the most common causes:

• Biting down on hard foods: Chewing on hard items like ice, nuts, or hard candy can put significant pressure on teeth, leading to cracks over time.
• Teeth grinding (bruxism): Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially during sleep, creates chronic stress on tooth enamel, increasing the risk of fractures.
• Previous dental work weakening the structure: Large fillings or restorations can compromise the strength of a tooth, making it more prone to cracking.
• Trauma or injury: Accidents, falls, or direct injury to the face can lead to sudden fractures in teeth.
• Age-related wear: Over time, teeth naturally weaken due to years of use, making older individuals more susceptible to cracks.

Warning Signs of a Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth can be tricky to identify, as symptoms often come and go. However, catching the warning signs early can save you from more serious dental issues down the road. Below are some common indicators to watch out for if you suspect you might have a cracked tooth:

Intermittent Pain While Chewing

• Intermittent pain when biting or releasing pressure is a classic sign of a cracked tooth. 
• This pain is often more noticeable when eating hard foods, like nuts or ice, or sticky foods, like caramel. 
• The pain might not be constant, making it easy to dismiss, but ignoring it could worsen the crack over time.

Sensitivity to Temperature or Sweets

• If you feel sudden, sharp zaps of pain when eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet, it could indicate a crack exposing your tooth’s inner layers. 
• This sensitivity may not follow a regular pattern, making it unpredictable and frustrating. 
• It’s important to mention this symptom to your dentist, as it could also be a sign of other dental issues.

Unexplained Toothache

• You might experience dull, throbbing pain or sharp, shooting pain without any visible damage to the tooth. 
• The pain can feel localized to one tooth or radiate to nearby teeth, making it harder to pinpoint the source. 
• This type of discomfort is often ignored until it worsens, so don’t wait to seek professional advice.

Gum Swelling or Irritation

• Swollen or inflamed gums near the suspected cracked tooth can indicate trouble beneath the surface. 
• This swelling could be a sign of an infection or an abscess forming around the cracked area. 
• Left untreated, gum irritation can lead to more severe complications, including tooth loss or systemic infection.

Visible Crack or Discolouration

• Hairline fractures may become more noticeable over time, especially if staining occurs along the crack. 
• The tooth might also take on a greyish or darker tone, indicating damage to the inner structure. 
• Even small visible changes in your tooth’s appearance should not be ignored, as they can signal a deeper issue.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to visit your dentist for an evaluation. Early detection and treatment of a cracked tooth can prevent more costly and painful problems in the future.

Why Ignoring a Cracked Tooth Is Risky

A cracked tooth might seem minor at first, but leaving it untreated can lead to serious oral health issues. What starts as a small inconvenience can escalate into painful complications that affect not just the tooth but your overall dental health. Here’s why addressing a cracked tooth promptly is so important:

Bacteria Infiltration and Infection

When a tooth is cracked, it creates an opening for bacteria to invade the inner layers of the tooth, including the pulp. The pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, is highly sensitive and vulnerable to infection. If bacteria reach this area, it can cause inflammation, severe pain, and, in some cases, a dental abscess. Left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, posing even greater health risks.

Spreading Damage

A crack in your tooth won’t heal on its own. Over time, the crack can expand or deepen, especially with the pressure caused by chewing or grinding. This can compromise the structural integrity of the tooth, turning a manageable issue into a much bigger problem. In severe cases, the crack can evolve into a split tooth, leaving extraction as the only option.

Tooth Loss and Bone Impact

Ignoring a cracked tooth could eventually result in tooth loss. When a tooth is lost, it doesn’t just affect your smile but also the surrounding bone structure. Without the tooth to stimulate the bone, the area may begin to lose density, potentially leading to additional oral health issues. This can affect neighbouring teeth and even change the shape of your jaw over time.

Treatment Options for Cracked Teeth

Cracked teeth are a common dental issue that can result from biting down on hard foods, trauma, or natural wear over time. While some cracks may be minor and purely cosmetic, others can threaten the integrity of the tooth and lead to pain or infection if left untreated. Fortunately, there are various treatment options available to address cracked teeth based on the severity and extent of the damage. Below are some common treatments and what they involve: 

Dental Bonding or Filling

For minor cracks, such as superficial craze lines, dental bonding or filling is often the go-to solution. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin to repair the crack, restoring the tooth's appearance and preventing the crack from worsening. It’s a quick and cost-effective option, suitable for small, non-structural damage.

Dental Crown

When a crack extends deeper into the tooth or affects its structure, a dental crown is typically recommended. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire tooth, providing strength and protection. This is a great option for cases where the cracks impact chewing or when the tooth has fractured cusps, as it reduces the risk of further breakage.

Root Canal Therapy

If the crack reaches the pulp—the soft tissue inside the tooth—it can cause pain, sensitivity, or even infection. In such cases, root canal therapy is necessary to save the tooth. This procedure removes the damaged or inflamed pulp, cleans out the tooth’s root canals, and seals them to prevent future issues. A crown is usually placed afterward for added protection and function.

Tooth Extraction

In severe cases where the crack extends below the gum line or compromises the tooth beyond repair, extraction may be the only option. While losing a tooth can feel daunting, there are effective replacement solutions such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures to restore your smile and oral function.

Addressing a cracked tooth promptly is essential to avoid complications like further damage, infection, or even tooth loss. Consulting with your dentist early ensures you receive the right treatment for your specific situation and can keep your smile healthy and strong.

How to Prevent Future Cracks

Preventing cracked teeth is all about protecting your enamel and being mindful of habits that put unnecessary stress on your teeth. Here are some effective steps you can take to safeguard your smile:

Wear a Night Guard if You Grind Your Teeth

If you grind or clench your teeth, especially during sleep, a custom-fitted night guard can make a big difference. This protective device cushions your teeth and reduces the stress caused by clenching, which can eventually lead to cracks. Talk to your dentist about getting a night guard specifically suited for your bite.

Avoid Hard Foods and Habits

Some foods and behaviours are more likely to damage your teeth over time:

• Stay away from chewing on ice, unpopped popcorn kernels, or hard candies, as these can put excessive pressure on your teeth.
• Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages, cut tape, or break objects—this can easily lead to small fractures that worsen over time.

Being mindful of what you eat and how you use your teeth is key to keeping them strong and healthy.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Regular visits to the dentist are essential for catching potential issues early. Your dentist can identify signs of enamel wear or small stress fractures before they develop into serious problems. Preventive care, such as fluoride treatments or sealants, can also strengthen your teeth and help protect them from future damage. By staying proactive, you can address minor issues before they turn into costly or painful repairs.

Conclusion

Cracked teeth may not always cause constant pain, but they remain a serious dental issue that shouldn't be ignored. Even if symptoms are subtle, such as occasional sensitivity or discomfort when chewing, these signs can be early warnings of a deeper problem. Paying attention to these subtle signs can make a huge difference in saving your natural tooth and avoiding more invasive procedures down the line.

Timely dental care is essential to prevent further damage and maintain your overall oral health. When caught early, cracked teeth can often be treated effectively, preserving the structure and function of your tooth. Neglecting the issue, however, can lead to complications like infections, more significant fractures, or even tooth loss. By seeking care from a dental professional as soon as you notice something is wrong, you can protect your smile and ensure long-term oral health.

‍If you're experiencing discomfort, sensitivity, or suspect a crack in your tooth, don’t wait until the damage worsens. Book an appointment with Newbury Dental today. Our experienced team will diagnose the issue and provide expert care to restore your smile. Contact us now to schedule your visit.