Cracked or fractured teeth are a lot more common than most people realize, with some data estimating that about 80% of people over age 40 have at least one cracked or fractured tooth. Fractures can range from relatively tiny, virtually invisible cracks to large breaks that cause a part of your tooth to completely separate from the rest.
Unlike broken bones that “knit” together over time, a broken or cracked tooth will never heal. Instead, a fracture or crack can become worse, leading to deep infections that can wind up spreading to other parts of your body.
In this post, the team from Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC helps you learn what symptoms to look for, so you can have a tooth fracture treated before more serious problems develop.
Most of us have had a toothache at some point during our lives, and often, that discomfort is related to tooth decay. But tooth fractures can cause dental pain, too. In fact, fractures can cause a lot of pain.
Depending on where the fracture is located, the extent of the fracture, and other factors, you might have persistent pain that makes it difficult to eat or even sleep. Other times, the pain may come and go, becoming especially intense when you bite down. In any case, any type of chronic or recurrent tooth pain is a sign that something’s wrong. If you have any pain, it’s time to call the office for an evaluation.
Tooth fractures can expose the nerves inside your teeth. These nerves are especially sensitive to temperature changes. That’s why tooth fractures are often associated with heightened sensitivity, especially when the tooth is exposed to hot or cold foods. Sugary foods can also cause sensitivity problems when you have a cracked or broken tooth.
Broken teeth can cause irritation in the gum tissue surrounding your teeth, leading to swollen gums. Your gums might feel tender or appear redder than normal, too. Swelling can also happen if you have an infection around the tooth fracture. Sometimes, swelling can spread to your cheek, making one side of your face look puffy.
Every time you bite or chew, you put a lot of pressure on your teeth. If you have a crack or fracture, that pressure can cause a lot of discomfort ranging from sharp, shooting pain to a dull ache.
Larger fractures are often visible when you look in the mirror. Other times, you might notice that a tooth feels rougher than normal when you run your tongue over it. When treatment is delayed, a fracture can cause damage inside the tooth that can cause the tooth to turn dark.
Even the tiniest crack can allow bacteria to enter your tooth. Without prompt care, those bacteria can multiply, causing an infection that can spread to other parts of your tooth, your jaw bone, and even your bloodstream. When an infection spreads, you can have a fever and flu-like symptoms, along with more serious complications.
If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to have them evaluated as soon as possible to prevent more serious problems. To learn what’s causing your symptoms and how we can help, call 929-229-0255 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC today.
