As your Local Redcliffe Dentist knows, not all cracked teeth are symptomatic. In fact some people often have cracked teeth without realising it. Some ypes of cracks are harmless and do not require treatment.
But what happens if cracked teeth are left untreated?
When left untreated, cracked teeth can lead to further discomfort and pain. The broken tooth is susceptible to infection, which has a high chance of getting worse over time. This infection can move from the neck/head area into the blood stream which can cause all sorts of health problems, and in the extreme situations, it can be life threatening.
Tooth decay and cavities eat away the enamel of broken teeth and weaken teeth. Teeth grinding and consuming alot of acidic food and drinks (such as fruit juice, spicy foods and coffee) can break down enamel and leave the surface of teeth exposed.
In some instances, a cracked tooth can lead to an infection in the gum line around the area of the fracture. This infection would look like a small bump on the gum near the tooth.
Why do cracked teeth hurt?
A cracked tooth can start hurting due to the pressure of biting which causes the crack to open up. When you stop biting, this pressure is released and sharp pain occurs as the crack may hurt because the pressure of biting causes the crack to open. When you stop biting, the pressure is released and a sharp pain results as the crack quickly closes. The crack may be microscopic Even though the crack may be microscopic, when exposed the root pulp inside the tooth may become irritated.
How do I know if I have a root fracture?
