Should a Dental Crack Get Checked or Can You Ignore It? Posted on 6/23/2018 by Sundberg Office Cracked teeth develop for a variety of reasons. Clenching, chewing on hard foods, or trauma can all result in a crack, and depending on the severity of the damage, you may need treatment. Simply ignoring the crack, even if it doesn't cause you any discomfort, may lead to greater problems in the future.
What Happens When You Ignore a Cracked Tooth?
When you ignore a cracked tooth, you are just asking for trouble. Left untreated, cracks in the teeth are major risk factors for decay. That crack provides easy access for bacteria to enter the inner portions of the tooth. This can lead to decay, and if an infection develops, you could experience significant pain and discomfort. In severe cases, your dentist might not be able to save the tooth, and it may need to be extracted.
How Are Cracked Teeth Treated?
A cracked tooth will mean that the crack travels from the chewing surface vertically toward the root. The tooth is still in one piece, although the crack could spread gradually. In most cases, a crown will be used to treat the crack, and it will cover the tooth to protect it. Without a crown, your cracked tooth wouldn't be able to withstand chewing pressures, and you may ultimately lose the tooth. If a crack extends into the pulp, you will likely need a root canal first. This will clear out decayed matter and will remove the nerve. Then, a crown is placed to protect the crack from spreading. If you believe your tooth could be broken or cracked, you need to see your dentist right away. Failure to have the cracked tooth checked in a timely manner could lead to further damage and the possibility of infection. Call us today to set up an appointment. It may be the difference between saving and losing your tooth.