Dental patients with tiny cracks in their teeth – cracks that are so small they don’t even appear on X-rays – are said to have “cracked tooth syndrome.” These tiny cracks can occur either above the gum line or below it, and they most commonly affect molars. This makes sense when you consider that our molars are the teeth we use to chew our food.
But why do some people develop cracked tooth syndrome and others do not? If you have large fillings in your molars, those teeth are more likely to crack. The same holds true for teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, which may weaken a tooth. And if you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding), your teeth may be more susceptible to cracking due to the excess pressure you put on your teeth.
Knowing whether or not you suffer from cracked tooth syndrome can be difficult to determine. But there are some symptoms to look for:
- A toothache when you chew or bite down — If you feel pain or sensitivity in a tooth, it may indicate that the tooth is cracked.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks – If you notice sensitivity in a particular area of your mouth or a specific tooth, it may be a sign that a tooth is cracked. This is particularly true if the sensitivity is new.
- A tooth breaks – If a crack gets larger, it’s possible that a portion of the tooth may break off. When this happens, it’s important to visit your dentist right away to avoid developing an infection.
Cracked tooth syndrome can be hard to diagnose even for your dentist. If you are experiencing periodic toothaches, be sure to tell your dentist. He or she will most likely perform a thorough examination of your teeth, using instruments designed to locate small cracks. He or she may also recommend that X-rays be taken, although tiny cracks don’t always appear on X-rays. Your dentist may also ask that you bite down on a special dental tool that is designed to determine whether you are experiencing any pain when biting down.
If cracks are found in one or more teeth, treatment options vary depending on the size of the crack and how deeply it extends into the tooth. In some instances, a crown may resolve the issue. Other times, a root canal may be required. In extreme cases, a cracked tooth may need to be extracted, in which case your dentist will recommend a suitable replacement for the tooth – typically either a dental bridge or an implant.
If you suffer from cracked tooth syndrome, it’s important to talk to your dentist about ways to prevent further cracks from developing in the future. Although it’s difficult to avoid cracks forming in teeth that have been weakened by large fillings or root canals, it is possible to effectively treat bruxism, which is a leading cause of cracked tooth syndrome. Talk to your dentist for more information.
