A cracked tooth can be a stressful and painful experience, especially when it happens when you're not expecting it.
A cracked tooth may happen suddenly, such as from facial trauma to the mouth area. It may also arise without much notice until one of several symptoms become noticeable.
In this article, we'll look at the 5 most common symptoms that show you may have a cracked tooth and need to see a dentist.
Pain While Chewing
This is the most common sign of a cracked tooth. If you feel discomfort or a sharp pain while biting down on food, it may be an indication that your tooth has a crack. The severity of the pain may vary depending on the size and location of the crack.
Pain when chewing almost always means a cracked tooth or other dental problem. So it's a good idea to see a professional as soon as possible if you experience this.
Sensitivity To Heat Or Cold
If you notice that your tooth is sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, it may be due to a crack in the tooth. When a tooth is cracked, the nerve endings in the tooth may become exposed, making it more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
This is often felt when drinking hot or cold beverages and one tooth is seemingly more sensitive to the temperature change than the others.
Swelling And Tenderness
Swelling and tenderness around a specific area can also be a sign of a cracked tooth. When a tooth is cracked, it can cause inflammation and irritation in the surrounding area, leading to swelling and tenderness.
Any swelling may also be a sign of an infection, so it's critical to see a professional as soon as possible if you experience this.
Visible Crack
This one is fairly easy to detect, but if you can see a visible crack in the tooth, then there is a problem. However, many cracks are not visible to the naked eye, and some may only be detected through an X-ray or dental examination. So just because you can't see a crack, doesn't mean there is no crack there.
Discoloration
Discoloration is also a common symptom of a cracked tooth. A crack in the tooth can cause the tooth to become discolored due to damage to the blood vessels and nerves in the tooth. This can put the tooth at risk and it should be examined by a dental professional as soon as possible.
More Information And Treatment For Cracked Teeth
A cracked tooth can often lead to pain and discomfort. But if left untreated, it can put the tooth at risk and it may need to be extracted.
If you notice any symptoms of a cracked tooth, contact Rio Grande Oral Surgery. Our staff can diagnose your cracked tooth and offer the best treatment plan for you.
By treating the crack early, you can save the tooth and prevent costly and painful procedures down the road that could have been easily avoided.
Contact Rio Grande Oral Surgery today and let us diagnose and repair your teeth so you can enjoy a pain-free and beautiful smile.