Cracked Tooth Syndrome 

Cracked tooth syndrome is the result of a chip, crack, or fracture in the tooth that can cause a wide range of symptoms. In many instances, you may feel pain or discomfort even though you cannot see any damage to the tooth. Often, microfractures in the teeth are only diagnosed after they show on X-rays. Most people develop cracked tooth syndrome in teeth that are decayed or weakened due to trauma or extensive previous dental work. 

Symptoms of Cracked Tooth Syndrome 

The symptoms can vary widely depending on how severe the crack or fracture in the tooth is. Pain may also come and go depending on your movements and whatever triggers the pain (chewing, for instance). Common symptoms of cracked tooth syndrome include: 

• Pain when eating or chewing, including pain when you release the pressure after biting down.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods or beverages
• Sensitivity to sweets
• Tooth pain that comes and goes, sometimes with a severe, stabbing pain
• Gums are swelling around a cracked tooth.
• Tooth pain that lasts longer and hurts more consistently over time
• Jaw pain around a cracked or fractured tooth

Sometimes it is difficult to pinpoint which tooth is damaged without an oral exam, X-rays, or digital imaging, particularly if the cracks are small. See your dentist as soon as possible if you are experiencing symptoms, as the tooth could continue to crack or break if left untreated.  

What Causes Cracked Tooth Syndrome? 

There are numerous possible causes for a cracked tooth. In some situations, the reason is never determined. It can be as simple as biting down on hard candy, chewing on ice or other objects, or even tearing open a package with your teeth. However, it can also be caused by undiagnosed tooth decay, facial injuries, or excessive wear and tear due to teeth grinding or clenching. Teeth weakened by large fillings or other dental treatments may also develop hairline cracks. 

Types of Cracked Teeth 

The type of crack in a tooth determines what kind of treatment is needed. The most common forms of cracked tooth syndrome can usually be treated without extracting the tooth. 

Craze Lines 

These are tiny hairline cracks in the enamel and are common in individuals over 50. They are not painful and don’t require treatment if the crazing does not reach the tooth’s dentin. 

Fractured Cusp 

A fractured cusp is usually the result of damage around a filling. Although the crack may reach the dentin, it should not damage or irritate the tooth’s pulp, where nerves and blood vessels are found. While they may cause mild discomfort, there is not usually a lot of pain. 

Cracks Above or Below the Gum Line 

If a vertical crack in the tooth does not continue below the gum line, Tonka Smiles can usually save the tooth and relieve any pain. If the damage is severe and goes below the gums, we may advise removing the tooth.  

Split Tooth 

A crack traveling from the top of the tooth’s crown to beneath the gums is considered a split tooth. We can often be segmented into two or more pieces. Our dentists can determine whether all or part of a split tooth can be salvaged and restored. 

Treating Cracked Tooth Syndrome 

It can be difficult to diagnose and treat cracked tooth syndrome because it is not always easy to determine the location and severity of a crack. We make every attempt to save the tooth. At Tonka Smiles, we perform an oral exam, take X-rays, and review your symptoms to determine how to relieve your pain and repair the damage.  

If you have any symptoms of cracked tooth syndrome, it is essential to contact our office as soon as possible so we can save the tooth and alleviate any discomfort. Call Tonka Smiles Phone Number 952-938-8533 and mention that you are suffering from tooth pain, and we will see you as soon as possible.