Is A Cracked Tooth A Big Deal?
Between appointments in our office, it is important to be mindful of the state of your teeth. You should be regularly inspecting your teeth and gums for changes or signs that there might be a problem with your oral health. This can be done visually by looking in your mouth for any indication of a problem. You may also be able to feel changes to your teeth by running your tongue along each one. If you notice or feel any changes, it is important to contact our office immediately. One complication that needs immediate attention is a cracked tooth. Read on to learn more.
Importance of Treating a Cracked Tooth
If you have a cracked tooth, it is important to receive treatment immediately. The longer a cracked tooth is left untreated, the greater the chance you have of needing a more involved treatment, such as a root canal or even a tooth extraction. Not only can a cracked tooth cause problems with your teeth, but it can also cause an infection that can spread to your gums and into the jawbone if left untreated. Aside from being visible in your mouth, other signs of a cracked tooth can include:
- Tooth sensitivity,
- Swelling of the gums around the damaged tooth,
- Pain when eating,
- Throbbing discomfort that comes and goes.
Best Way to Prevent a Cracked Tooth
The best way to prevent a cracked tooth is to avoid using your teeth as tools. It can be tempting to use your teeth to open packages and rip off tags, but the pressure can cause the tooth enamel to become compromised and eventually crack. The same can happen from biting fingernails, chewing on pens and pencils, and chewing on ice.
If you think you may have a cracked tooth, be sure to contact our office, which is located in Burton, MI, as soon as possible. We want to check your mouth and treat the issue to prevent further damage.
