Cracked tooth syndrome (CTS) is a common dental condition occurring when a tooth develops a crack or fracture. The tooth crack can be visible, but in most cases, it is invisible to the naked eye. CTS can cause multiple symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain, leading to serious dental problems if left untreated.
Causes of Cracked Tooth Syndrome:
Trauma
Teeth can crack due to trauma, such as a blow to the mouth, a fall, or a car accident.
Biting Down on Hard Objects
Chewing on hard objects such as ice, hard candy, or pens can weaken the teeth and result in their cracking.
Age
As we age, our teeth become more brittle and are more susceptible to cracking.
Bruxism
Bruxism, or grinding and clenching of the teeth, can put excessive pressure on the teeth and lead to cracks.
Large Fillings
Excessive teeth fillings or other restorations are more prone to cracking, especially if they are not structurally sound.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay weakens the tooth structure and can make it more susceptible to cracking.
Uneven Chewing
Chewing on one side of the mouth more than the other can put excessive pressure on the teeth, leading to cracks.
Symptoms of Cracked Tooth Syndrome:
Pain When Biting Down
Experiencing pain while chewing or talking is the predominant symptom of Cracked Tooth Syndrome (CTS).
Sensitivity
You may experience sensitivity when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages. Sensitivity is one of the leading dental problems in kids. If your child complains about tooth pain after eating hot or cold food or even brushing, it is time to visit the best dentist in town.
Lingering Pain
Pain associated with CTS can last for several seconds or even minutes after you release the bite pressure.
Swelling
Although a less common symptom, there is a slight possibility of swelling around the affected tooth area.
Sweetness Causing Pain
Sugar can irritate the nerves through the crack opening and thus cause tooth pain. Sharma Dental Clinic has the best dentists in Ludhiana who guide you through all your dental complications with their expert opinion.
Treatment Options for Cracked Tooth Syndrome:
Treatment options for CTS depend on the severity of the crack and the location of the affected tooth. In many cases, the following treatment options are recommended:
Dental Bonding
For small cracks, the best dentist in town might recommend dental bonding. The dentist applies a tooth-coloured resin to the tooth to repair the crack.
Crown
For a larger crack, inserting a tooth crown seems like an ideal choice. A tooth crown is a cap that fits over the tooth to provide support and protection.
Root Canal
If the crack has extended into the inner layers of the tooth, a root canal may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue and relieve pain.
Extraction: In some cases, the tooth may be too damaged to be saved and may need to be extracted. After extraction, the dentist would replace it with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture.
Read more to find out which dental implant is best for you.
Prevention of Cracked Tooth Syndrome:
While some factors that contribute to CTS, such as age-related wear and tear, are beyond our control, there are some steps we can take to prevent cracked teeth, including:
Wear a Mouthguard
If you play sports or grind your teeth, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from injury.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing twice a day can help keep your teeth healthy and strong.
Avoid Using your Teeth as Tools
Using your teeth to open packages or bottles can put excessive pressure on them, increasing the risk of cracks.
Wear a Nightguard
Grinding teeth subconsciously at night can cause tooth cracks. Wearing a nightguard can help protect your teeth from damage.
Seek Treatment for Tooth Decay
Treating tooth decay promptly can help prevent it from weakening the tooth structure and leading to cracks.
Regular Dental Checkups
Paying timely visits to the best dentist in town can help identify any potential issues, including cracks before they become more serious.
Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, cracked tooth syndrome has multiple factors, leading to a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe pain. Fortunately, there are several treatment options for cracked tooth syndrome (CTS). If you are experiencing any symptoms of CTS, schedule an appointment with the best dentist in town to discuss the appropriate course of treatment.
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