Cracked Tooth Syndrome – What is it and How We Can Treat It
Cracked tooth syndrome is a condition where a tooth has a small, often invisible, crack that can cause pain and discomfort. This crack can occur in any part of the tooth and is usually caused by factors such as trauma, large fillings, tooth grinding or chewing hard foods. The symptoms of cracked tooth syndrome can vary, including pain when chewing or biting, sensitivity to temperature changes, pain when releasing bite pressure, or a dull ache.
The diagnosis of cracked tooth syndrome can be difficult as an X-ray might not display the cracked tooth sufficiently. Obviously, the best way to treat any cracked tooth is through a full dental examination from a qualified dentist. The dentist may recommend different treatment options that are best suited to each patient, such as a filling, crown, or even extraction, depending on the extent of the damage. An early prognosis aligned with treatment is what we recommend to prevent further damage and preserve the tooth.
What Causes Cracked Tooth Syndrome?
A variety of factors cause cracked tooth syndrome. One of the most common causes is tooth trauma, such as biting down on hard foods or objects or receiving an injury to the mouth. Wear and tear on the teeth can also cause cracking over time. Certain habits, such as tooth grinding or clenching, can also lead to cracking. Large fillings or restorations can also cause teeth to crack, as they can weaken the structure of the tooth.
Other contributing factors to cracked tooth syndrome include tooth decay, gum disease, and age. In some cases, the cause of the crack cannot be identified. It’s important to note that factors contributing to cracking can vary from person to person, and a combination of factors can also be at play.
What Symptoms Indicate Cracked Tooth Syndrome?
The symptoms of cracked tooth syndrome can vary, but they may include the following:
- Pain or discomfort when eating, especially when biting on something hard.
- Sensitivity to temperature changes, sweets or pressure.
- Pain when releasing bite pressure.
- A dull ache in the affected tooth.
- A feeling of something stuck in between the teeth.
- Swelling in the gums around the affected tooth.
- In some cases, no symptoms make it difficult to detect.
When you have symptoms of cracked tooth syndrome, it can be hard for a dentist to diagnose because they are similar to symptoms of other dental problems like tooth decay, abscess, or sinus issues. The dentist will need to use different methods to diagnose cracked tooth syndrome, such as X-rays, CT scans, or a tooth sensitivity test. It’s best to see a dentist for a proper diagnosis.
How Brighton Dental Suite Treats Cracked Tooth Syndrome
The treatment of cracked tooth syndrome will depend on the location, size, and type of the crack, as well as the symptoms and the overall health of the affected tooth and the patient. The most common treatment for a cracked tooth is dental bonding, which is a procedure that involves placing a tooth-coloured resin material to repair the crack. A dental crown or inlay can also cover the tooth and protect it from further damage. In some cases, a root canal treatment may be necessary to remove the infected or dead pulp and nerve of the tooth.
Another option for treating a cracked tooth is tooth extraction if the tooth is too damaged to be saved. Sometimes, a dentist may recommend a splint or a bite guard to help protect the tooth and prevent further cracking.
We recommend discussing the treatment options with a dentist to determine the best course of treatment based on the individual case. In some cases, a dentist may also recommend adjusting the patient’s bite or even changing the type of toothbrush or toothpaste to help prevent the recurrence of the crack.
Schedule an Appointment Today
We offer same-day visits and late opening hours that work around your schedule. Do you have pain or discomfort when you’re eating, with a constant ache in your teeth? You may have Cracked Tooth Syndrome. Contact our team today to discuss your symptoms. We’re providers with Medibank, HCF and MDF. You can claim your health fund rebate on the spot with our HICAPS machine.
* Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.
Common Questions Related to Cracked Tooth Syndrome
What is Exactly Cracked Tooth Syndrome?
Cracked tooth syndrome is a condition where a tooth has an incomplete fracture, which might not be noticed on X-rays or during a dental examination. A cracked tooth can cause pain and discomfort despite the lack of visible damage.
What are The Common Causes of Cracked Tooth Syndrome?
Cracked tooth syndrome can be caused by various factors, such as tooth trauma, wear and tear on the teeth, tooth grinding or clenching, large fillings or restorations, tooth decay, gum disease and age.
Is Cracked Tooth Syndrome Commonly Treated at Brighton Dental Suite?
Yes, cracked Tooth Syndrome is commonly treated at Brighton Dental Suite. Our experienced dentists are able to diagnose and provide suitable treatment for this condition. If you believe you may be experiencing this issue, we encourage you schedule a consultation with us. During the consultation, we are able to evaluate your symptoms and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
What are The Main Symptoms of Cracked Tooth Syndrome?
Symptoms of cracked tooth syndrome can include pain or discomfort you’re chewing, sensitivity to temperature changes, pain when releasing bite pressure, a dull ache in the affected tooth, a feeling of something stuck in between the teeth, and swelling in the gums around the affected tooth.
How do Dentists Diagnose Cracked Tooth Syndrome?
A dentist usually diagnoses cracked tooth syndrome. The dentist may recommend different diagnostic methods such as X-rays, CT scans, or even a tooth sensitivity test to detect the crack.
What are The Methods to Treat Cracked Tooth Syndrome?
The method of treating a cracked tooth will vary depending on the extent of the crack and the overall health of the affected tooth. One common treatment option is to use dental bonding, which entails applying a tooth-coloured resin material to repair the crack. Another option is to use a dental crown or inlay, which serves to cover the tooth and safeguard it from any further damage. The specific treatment plan will be determined by a dentist based on the specific location, size, and type of the crack, as well as the symptoms.
Can Cracked Tooth Syndrome be Prevented?
Cracked tooth syndrome can be prevented by avoiding tooth trauma, practising good oral hygiene, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups. If you have a habit of tooth grinding, a bite guard can be used to protect the teeth from damage. In some cases, a dentist may also recommend adjusting the patient’s bite, or even changing the type of toothbrush or toothpaste, to help prevent the recurrence of the crack.
Our Concluding Thoughts on Cracked Tooth Syndrome
In conclusion, cracked tooth syndrome is a condition that affects many people, but it is not always easy to detect. A variety of factors, such as tooth trauma, wear and tear, tooth grinding, large fillings, tooth decay and gum disease, cause it. The symptoms of cracked tooth syndrome can vary, including pain or discomfort when eating, sensitivity to temperature changes, a dull ache in the affected tooth, and swelling in the gums. Early detection and treatment of cracked tooth syndrome are vital to prevent further damage and preserve the tooth.
Our dentists can diagnose and recommend the best treatment options based on the individual case, which may include bonding, crowns, inlays, root canal treatment, or extraction. It goes without saying that practising good oral hygiene and maintaining regular dentist visits will avoid cracking and other dental issues. If you want to find out more about other dental conditions, we would recommend going back to our overview page.